2003 Audi A4 vs. 1979 Ford Escort

To start off, 2003 Audi A4 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A4 (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1979 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A4 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1979 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 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 1979 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A4, 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, 2003 Audi A4 (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Audi A4 1979 Ford Escort
Make Audi Ford
Model A4 Escort
Year Released 2003 1979
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1595 cc 939 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 113 HP 45 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 148 Nm 60 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1295 kg 875 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 3980 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1600 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2660 mm 2410 mm