1996 Ford Escort vs. 2006 Ford Focus
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 10 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, 2006 Ford Focus (79 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Focus weights approximately 46 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.
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, 2006 Ford Focus (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2006 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Focus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1176 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
