1975 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Proton 400
To start off, 2003 Proton 400 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Proton 400 (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1975 Ford Escort. (43 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 1975 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Proton 400 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1975 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Proton 400 (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Ford Escort. (70 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Ford Escort | 2003 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Ford | Proton |
| Model | Escort | 400 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1096 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
