1971 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Ford Fusion
To start off, 2009 Ford Fusion is newer by 38 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Fusion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Fusion (160 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1971 Ford Escort. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Fusion weights approximately 161 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, 2009 Ford Fusion, 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 Fusion (212 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Escort. (68 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Escort. 2009 Ford Fusion has automatic transmission and 1971 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1971 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Fusion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Escort | 2009 Ford Fusion | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Fusion |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2730 mm |
