1984 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2004 Smart ForFour is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,608 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Smart ForFour (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (53 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Smart ForFour weights approximately 105 kg more than 1984 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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. 2004 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1984 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1984 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Escort | 2004 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Escort | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
