1997 Ford Escort vs. 2006 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2006 Smart ForFour 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 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart ForFour (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Escort weights approximately 160 kg more than 2006 Smart ForFour.
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 Smart ForFour (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2006 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 2006 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Escort | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
