1996 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Scion xB
To start off, 2003 Scion xB 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 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Scion xB is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Scion xB (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Scion xB should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 60 kg more than 2003 Scion xB.
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 Scion xB (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Scion xB will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2003 Scion xB 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. 2003 Scion xB will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2003 Scion xB | |
| Make | Ford | Scion |
| Model | Escort | xB |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1650 mm |
