1996 Ford Escort vs. 1990 Renault 21
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,068 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Renault 21 (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Renault 21 weights approximately 175 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 1990 Renault 21 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Renault 21 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1990 Renault 21 (271 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1990 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 1990 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Escort | 21 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
