1997 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Honda Fit
To start off, 2003 Honda Fit 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 1,496 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Honda Fit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Honda Fit (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Honda Fit should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Escort weights approximately 110 kg more than 2003 Honda Fit.
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 Honda Fit (131 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Honda Fit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 2003 Honda Fit | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Escort | Fit |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
