2009 Dodge Sprinter vs. 1996 Ford Escort
To start off, 2009 Dodge Sprinter is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Sprinter is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Sprinter (154 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Sprinter should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Sprinter weights approximately 521 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Sprinter 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 2009 Dodge Sprinter. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort, 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, 2009 Dodge Sprinter (380 Nm @ 1200 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Sprinter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2009 Dodge Sprinter has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Sprinter will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Sprinter | 1996 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Sprinter | Escort |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Van | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6950 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2740 mm | 1400 mm |
