1996 Ford Ranger vs. 2012 Ford Escape
To start off, 2012 Ford Escape is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Escape (177 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Escape weights approximately 262 kg more than 1996 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Ford Ranger is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Escape, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Ranger (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Escape. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Escape.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ranger | 2012 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ranger | Escape |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2507 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1657 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4437 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2619 mm |
