1983 Ford Escort vs. 2003 MCC Smart
To start off, 2003 MCC Smart is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 MCC Smart (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 MCC Smart should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Escort weights approximately 230 kg more than 2003 MCC Smart.
Because 2003 MCC Smart 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 2003 MCC Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2003 MCC Smart (112 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (111 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 MCC Smart will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Escort | 2003 MCC Smart | |
| Make | Ford | MCC |
| Model | Escort | Smart |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2370 mm |
