2008 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Ford Escort
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (114 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 232 kg more than 1997 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, 2008 Ford Focus (250 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1997 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Focus | Escort |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1450 mm |
