2005 Buick Rainier vs. 1988 Ford Escort

To start off, 2005 Buick Rainier is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Escort would be higher. At 4,163 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Buick Rainier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Buick Rainier (276 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1988 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Buick Rainier should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Buick Rainier weights approximately 979 kg more than 1988 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Buick Rainier is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Buick Rainier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Ford Escort, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Buick Rainier (387 Nm) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Escort. (145 Nm). This means 2005 Buick Rainier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Buick Rainier 1988 Ford Escort
Make Buick Ford
Model Rainier Escort
Year Released 2005 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4163 cc 1859 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 276 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 387 Nm 145 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 2004 kg 1025 kg
Vehicle Length 4920 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1920 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1900 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2900 mm 2400 mm