1996 Ford Escort vs. 1999 MCC Smart
To start off, 1999 MCC Smart is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort 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 21 more horse power than 1999 MCC Smart. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1999 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 380 kg more than 1999 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 MCC Smart 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 1999 MCC Smart. 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 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 MCC Smart. (80 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 MCC Smart. 1999 MCC Smart has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 MCC Smart will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 1999 MCC Smart | |
| Make | Ford | MCC |
| Model | Escort | Smart |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1180 mm |
