1997 Ford Escort vs. 1966 Renault 8
To start off, 1997 Ford Escort is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Renault 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Renault 8 would be higher. At 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Escort (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1966 Renault 8. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1966 Renault 8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Escort weights approximately 340 kg more than 1966 Renault 8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Renault 8 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 1966 Renault 8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Escort, 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, 1997 Ford Escort (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Renault 8. (78 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Renault 8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 1966 Renault 8 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Escort | 8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 78 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
