1996 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2008 Toyota Prius is newer by 12 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 1,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Prius is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Prius (110 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort.
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, 1996 Ford Escort (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Prius. (111 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Prius. 2008 Toyota Prius 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. 2008 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2008 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Escort | Prius |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 110 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1500 mm |
