1973 Peugeot 304 vs. 1971 Ford Escort
To start off, 1973 Peugeot 304 is newer by 2 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 1,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Peugeot 304 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Peugeot 304 (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1971 Ford Escort. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Peugeot 304 should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Peugeot 304 weights approximately 110 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, 1973 Peugeot 304, 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, 1973 Peugeot 304 (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Escort. (68 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Peugeot 304 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Escort. 1971 Ford Escort has automatic transmission and 1973 Peugeot 304 has manual transmission. 1973 Peugeot 304 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Ford Escort will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Peugeot 304 | 1971 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Peugeot | Ford |
| Model | 304 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2400 mm |
