1979 Ford Escort vs. 2003 MCC Smart
To start off, 2003 MCC Smart is newer by 24 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 1,499 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 MCC Smart is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 MCC Smart (106 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1979 Ford Escort. (45 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 MCC Smart should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 MCC Smart weights approximately 65 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, 2003 MCC Smart, 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, 2003 MCC Smart (145 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Escort. (60 Nm). This means 2003 MCC Smart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Ford Escort | 2003 MCC Smart | |
| Make | Ford | MCC |
| Model | Escort | Smart |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 939 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 106 HP |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 47 L |
