1978 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2012 Ford Escape
To start off, 2012 Ford Escape is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Escape (177 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. (138 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Escape weights approximately 237 kg more than 1978 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Chrysler Valiant 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 1978 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Escape, 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, 1978 Chrysler Valiant (277 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Escape. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Escape.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chrysler Valiant | 2012 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Valiant | Escape |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 277 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1657 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4437 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2619 mm |
