2006 Ford Mustang vs. 1981 Ford Escort
To start off, 2006 Ford Mustang 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 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Mustang (210 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Mustang weights approximately 266 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 Ford Mustang 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 2006 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2006 Ford Mustang (325 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Mustang | 1981 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Escort |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.4 mm | 87.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 954 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2400 mm |
