1997 Ford Escort vs. 1983 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1997 Ford Escort is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fiesta 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 34 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Escort weights approximately 415 kg more than 1983 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1997 Ford Escort (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 1983 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 64 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
