1997 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Ford Focus
To start off, 2003 Ford Focus is newer by 6 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Focus (108 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Focus weights approximately 120 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, 2003 Ford Focus (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 2003 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Focus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
