1998 Ford Escort vs. 2007 Ford Focus

To start off, 2007 Ford Focus is newer by 9 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1998 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Ford Focus weights approximately 288 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, 2007 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2007 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Escort. 2007 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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