1997 Ford Versailles vs. 2001 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2001 Panoz Esperante is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Versailles. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Versailles would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Panoz Esperante (317 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1997 Ford Versailles. (91 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Versailles.
Because 2001 Panoz Esperante is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Panoz Esperante. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Versailles, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Panoz Esperante (426 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Versailles. (144 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Versailles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Versailles | 2001 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Ford | Panoz |
| Model | Versailles | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 426 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2700 mm |
