1978 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Renault Megane
To start off, 2009 Renault Megane is newer by 31 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Renault Megane (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1978 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Renault Megane should accelerate faster 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, 2009 Renault Megane, 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 Megane (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Ford Escort | 2009 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Escort | Megane |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 938 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 | 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 60 L |
