2009 Fiat 500 vs. 1997 Ford Escort
To start off, 2009 Fiat 500 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 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 74 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Escort weights approximately 115 kg more than 2009 Fiat 500.
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 Fiat 500 (145 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Fiat 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Fiat 500 | 1997 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 500 | Escort |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
