2009 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1997 Ford Escort

To start off, 2009 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 12 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 5,325 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 728 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, 2009 Buick LaCrosse (438 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 324 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort. 2009 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Buick LaCrosse 1997 Ford Escort
Make Buick Ford
Model LaCrosse Escort
Year Released 2009 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5325 cc 1391 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 300 HP 74 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 438 Nm 114 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1858 kg 1130 kg
Vehicle Length 5040 mm 4310 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1450 mm