2009 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Ford Escort
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus 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 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus 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. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 137 kg more than 1997 Ford Escort.
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 Focus (175 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1997 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Focus | Escort |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 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 | 175 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1267 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
