1972 Ford Escort vs. 2001 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2001 Smart ForFour is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Smart ForFour (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1972 Ford Escort. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Smart ForFour weights approximately 75 kg more than 1972 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Smart ForFour, 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. 2001 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1972 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1972 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Ford Escort | 2001 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Escort | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.8 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 47 L |
