2005 Fiat Idea vs. 1979 Ford Escort
To start off, 2005 Fiat Idea is newer by 26 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 1,368 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Fiat Idea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Fiat Idea (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1979 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Fiat Idea should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Escort.
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, 2005 Fiat Idea, 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 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Fiat Idea | 1979 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | Idea | Escort |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 45 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
