2009 Ford Escape vs. 2003 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2009 Ford Escape is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Toyota Prius. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Toyota Prius would be higher. At 2,486 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Escape (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2003 Toyota Prius. (76 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota Prius.
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 Ford Escape (171 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Toyota Prius. (115 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Toyota Prius. 2003 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Escape has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Escape will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Escape | 2003 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Escape | Prius |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2486 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
