1996 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Honda Civic
To start off, 2003 Honda Civic is newer by 7 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, 2003 Honda Civic (85 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 24 kg more than 2003 Honda Civic.
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, 2003 Honda Civic (141 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2003 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Escort | Civic |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 85 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
