1976 Ford Fiesta vs. 1997 Ford Escort
To start off, 1997 Ford Escort is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Escort (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Escort weights approximately 455 kg more than 1976 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Ford Escort (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (65 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Fiesta | 1997 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Escort |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 65 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
