1997 Ford Escort vs. 1982 Renault 5
To start off, 1997 Ford Escort is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Renault 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Renault 5 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Renault 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Renault 5 (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Renault 5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Escort weights approximately 160 kg more than 1982 Renault 5.
Because 1982 Renault 5 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 1982 Renault 5. 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, 1982 Renault 5 (221 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1982 Renault 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 1982 Renault 5 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Escort | 5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
