1971 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 41 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Elantra (145 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1971 Ford Escort. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Escort.
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, 2012 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 2012 Hyundai Elantra (176 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Escort. (68 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Escort. 2012 Hyundai Elantra 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. 2012 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ford Escort | 2012 Hyundai Elantra | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | Escort | Elantra |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1435 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2700 mm |
