1996 Ford Escort vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 16 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Forte (156 HP) has 82 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Forte weights approximately 158 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, 2012 Kia Forte (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2012 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Escort | Forte |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 156 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1238 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1461 mm |
