2006 Ford Explorer vs. 1980 Ford Escort

To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 26 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 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Explorer (210 HP) has 161 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 2002 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 2006 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Ford Explorer 1980 Ford Escort
Make Ford Ford
Model Explorer Escort
Year Released 2006 1980
Body Type SUV Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4015 cc 1116 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 210 HP 49 HP
Torque 344 Nm 84 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92.3 mm 74 mm
Engine Stroke Size 99.3 mm 65 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 7 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 2862 kg 860 kg
Vehicle Length 4920 mm 4040 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1860 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 85 L 40 L