1968 Ford Escort vs. 1958 Steyr 500

To start off, 1968 Ford Escort is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Steyr 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Steyr 500 would be higher. At 1,117 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Ford Escort (54 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1958 Steyr 500. (16 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1958 Steyr 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Ford Escort weights approximately 365 kg more than 1958 Steyr 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1958 Steyr 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 1958 Steyr 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 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, 1968 Ford Escort (82 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Steyr 500. (32 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1968 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Steyr 500.

Compare all specifications:

1968 Ford Escort 1958 Steyr 500
Make Ford Steyr
Model Escort 500
Year Released 1968 1958
Engine Size 1117 cc 493 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 54 HP 16 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 82 Nm 32 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2800 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 810 kg 445 kg
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 2970 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1330 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2400 mm 1850 mm