2004 Ford Taurus vs. 1981 Ford Escort
To start off, 2004 Ford Taurus is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 631 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Ford Taurus (251 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 1981 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus | Escort |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 954 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2400 mm |
