1997 Ford Escort vs. 2002 Toyota Solara
To start off, 2002 Toyota Solara is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,438 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Toyota Solara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Toyota Solara (162 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Toyota Solara should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota Solara weights approximately 225 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.
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, 2002 Toyota Solara (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2002 Toyota Solara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 2002 Toyota Solara | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Escort | Solara |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
