2006 Ford Ranger vs. 1981 Ford Escort
To start off, 2006 Ford Ranger 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 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Ranger (143 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort.
Because 2006 Ford Ranger 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 Ford Ranger 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 Ford Ranger (209 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ranger | 1981 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ranger | Escort |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.4 mm | 87.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2400 mm |
