2005 Ford Econovan vs. 1980 Ford Escort

To start off, 2005 Ford Econovan is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,788 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Econovan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ford Escort (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2005 Ford Econovan. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Econovan weights approximately 400 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort.

Because 2005 Ford Econovan 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 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 Ford Econovan (138 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Econovan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Ford Econovan 1980 Ford Escort
Make Ford Ford
Model Econovan Escort
Year Released 2005 1980
Body Type Van Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1788 cc 1597 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 90 HP 96 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 138 Nm 132 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1295 kg 895 kg
Vehicle Length 4290 mm 3980 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1870 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2210 mm 2400 mm