1996 Ford Escort vs. 1977 Renault 12
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Renault 12 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 (131 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 252 kg more than 1977 Renault 12. 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 (172 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 1977 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Escort | 12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 73.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 56 L |
