1998 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2003 Skoda Octavia is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Skoda Octavia (99 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1998 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 160 kg more than 1998 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, 2003 Skoda Octavia (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2003 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Escort | 2003 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Ford | Skoda |
| Model | Escort | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
