1996 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Honda Civic
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 13 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Civic (197 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Civic weights approximately 331 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, 2009 Honda Civic (189 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Escort | Civic |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
