1971 Ford Escort vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 1996 Proton 400 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Proton 400 (67 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1971 Ford Escort. (38 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Proton 400 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1971 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Ford Escort 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 1971 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Proton 400, 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, 1996 Proton 400 (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Escort. (68 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Escort | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Ford | Proton |
| Model | Escort | 400 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2510 mm |
