1997 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Honda Insight
To start off, 2011 Honda Insight is newer by 14 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, 2011 Honda Insight (98 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Honda Insight should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Honda Insight weights approximately 62 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, 2011 Honda Insight (167 Nm @ 1000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 Honda Insight will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 2011 Honda Insight | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Escort | Insight |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 1000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1232 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4376 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1427 mm |
