2006 Dodge Charger vs. 1981 Ford Escort

To start off, 2006 Dodge Charger is newer by 25 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 3,522 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Charger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Charger (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Charger should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Charger weights approximately 1389 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.

Because 2006 Dodge Charger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Charger will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Dodge Charger (339 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Charger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Dodge Charger 1981 Ford Escort
Make Dodge Ford
Model Charger Escort
Year Released 2006 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3522 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 250 HP 70 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 339 Nm 121 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96 mm 87.7 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81 mm 66 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 2343 kg 954 kg
Vehicle Length 5090 mm 4170 mm
Vehicle Width 1900 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 3050 mm 2400 mm