1978 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2008 Ford Fiesta is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 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 252 kg more than 1978 Ford Escort.
Because 1978 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 1978 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 (205 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 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 1978 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Escort | 2008 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| 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 | 205 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 |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1127 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2490 mm |
