1998 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Nissan Hardbody

To start off, 2005 Nissan Hardbody is newer by 7 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 2,389 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Hardbody is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Hardbody (155 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1998 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Hardbody should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Hardbody weights approximately 115 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.

Because 2005 Nissan Hardbody 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 2005 Nissan Hardbody. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Escort, 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, 2005 Nissan Hardbody (209 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan Hardbody will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Escort.

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