1977 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2005 Toyota Matrix is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,793 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota Matrix (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1977 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 208 kg more than 1977 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2005 Toyota Matrix (167 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Escort | 2005 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Escort | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 939 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 50 L |
