2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (493 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 434 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 weights approximately 206 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (480 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Shelby GT 500 | Escort |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5408 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
