1997 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2011 Nissan Versa 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Nissan Versa (107 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Escort weights approximately 21 kg more than 2011 Nissan Versa.
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 Nissan Versa (150 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 2011 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Escort | Versa |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 107 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1149 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1694 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1534 mm |
