1996 Ford Escort vs. 2001 Renault Clio
To start off, 2001 Renault Clio is newer by 5 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Clio (230 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (112 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Clio weights approximately 570 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 2001 Renault Clio 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 2001 Renault Clio. 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 (173 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Renault Clio. (105 Nm). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Renault Clio. 2001 Renault Clio 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. 2001 Renault Clio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2001 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Escort | Clio |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
