2009 Ford Escape vs. 1997 Ford Aerostar
To start off, 2009 Ford Escape is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Aerostar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Aerostar would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Aerostar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Escape (171 HP @ 6550 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1997 Ford Aerostar. (133 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Aerostar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Aerostar weights approximately 549 kg more than 2009 Ford Escape.
Because 1997 Ford Aerostar 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 1997 Ford Aerostar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Escape, 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 Ford Escape (302 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Aerostar. (217 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Aerostar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Escape | 1997 Ford Aerostar | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escape | Aerostar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2975 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6550 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 302 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3030 mm |
