1997 Ford Escort vs. 2006 Honda Element
To start off, 2006 Honda Element is newer by 9 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 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Honda Element (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Escort weights approximately 95 kg more than 2006 Honda Element.
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, 2006 Honda Element (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2006 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 2006 Honda Element | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Escort | Element |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2354 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1790 mm |
