1996 Ford Escort vs. 1971 Renault 17
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Renault 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Renault 17 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Escort (112 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1971 Renault 17. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1971 Renault 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 75 kg more than 1971 Renault 17. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Ford Escort (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Renault 17. (133 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Renault 17.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 1971 Renault 17 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Escort | 17 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2440 mm |
