1996 Ford Escort vs. 1966 MG Midget
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 MG Midget. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 MG Midget would be higher. At 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Escort (74 HP) has 16 more horse power than 1966 MG Midget. (58 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1966 MG Midget. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 345 kg more than 1966 MG Midget. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 MG Midget 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 1966 MG Midget. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Ford Escort (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 MG Midget. (88 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 MG Midget.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 1966 MG Midget | |
| Make | Ford | MG |
| Model | Escort | Midget |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 58 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1372 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1232 mm |
