1996 Ford Escort vs. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 17 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze (134 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 257 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, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2013 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Escort | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1427 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1476 mm |
