1999 Ford Escort vs. 1971 Ford GT 40
To start off, 1999 Ford Escort is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford GT 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford GT 40 would be higher. At 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford GT 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford GT 40 (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1999 Ford Escort. (131 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Escort weights approximately 164 kg more than 1971 Ford GT 40.
Because 1971 Ford GT 40 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 1971 Ford GT 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Ford Escort (178 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 1999 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford GT 40. 1999 Ford Escort has automatic transmission and 1971 Ford GT 40 has manual transmission. 1971 Ford GT 40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Ford Escort will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Escort | 1971 Ford GT 40 | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | GT 40 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 95.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.9 mm | 72.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1124 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 980 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2420 mm |
