1976 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Renault Clio

To start off, 2009 Renault Clio is newer by 33 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Renault Clio (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1976 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Renault Clio weights approximately 900 kg more than 1976 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2009 Renault Clio, 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, 2009 Renault Clio (152 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1976 Ford Escort 2009 Renault Clio
Make Ford Renault
Model Escort Clio
Year Released 1976 2009
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 939 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 45 HP 111 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 60 Nm 152 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 1810 kg
Vehicle Length 4060 mm 3990 mm
Vehicle Width 1570 mm 2030 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1710 mm
Wheelbase Size 2420 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 55 L