1979 Ford Escort vs. 1997 Ford Escort

To start off, 1997 Ford Escort is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Escort 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 29 more horse power than 1979 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Escort weights approximately 255 kg more than 1979 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 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 1979 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Escort, 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, 1997 Ford Escort (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Escort.

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