1996 Ford Escort vs. 1974 Ford Fairlane

To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Ford Fairlane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Ford Fairlane would be higher. At 3,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Ford Fairlane (153 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 282 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1974 Ford Fairlane 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 1974 Ford Fairlane. 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, 1974 Ford Fairlane (325 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1974 Ford Fairlane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.

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