1997 Ford Escort vs. 1996 Opel Frontera
To start off, 1997 Ford Escort is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Frontera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Frontera would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Opel Frontera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Frontera (115 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Frontera should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Frontera weights approximately 790 kg more than 1997 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Opel Frontera is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Opel Frontera will offer significantly more control. 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 Opel Frontera (260 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Frontera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 1996 Opel Frontera | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Escort | Frontera |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
