2001 Ford Fiesta vs. 1978 Ford Escort
To start off, 2001 Ford Fiesta is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Fiesta (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 66 kg more than 1978 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Ford Escort 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 1978 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Fiesta, 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 Ford Fiesta (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Fiesta | 1978 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Escort |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 938 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 45 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 976 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 53 L |
