1996 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Vibe 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Vibe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Vibe (130 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Vibe 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, 2009 Pontiac Vibe (128 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Vibe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2009 Pontiac Vibe 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. 2009 Pontiac Vibe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2009 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Escort | Vibe |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 130 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1560 mm |
