1976 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Ford Fiesta

To start off, 2008 Ford Fiesta is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 197 kg more than 1976 Ford Escort.

Because 1976 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 1976 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2008 Ford Fiesta (204 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1976 Ford Escort 2008 Ford Fiesta
Make Ford Ford
Model Escort Fiesta
Year Released 1976 2008
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 939 cc 1560 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 45 HP 0 HP
Torque 60 Nm 204 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 1500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 1107 kg
Vehicle Length 4060 mm 3920 mm
Vehicle Width 1570 mm 1470 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1690 mm
Wheelbase Size 2420 mm 2490 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 45 L