1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1983 Ford Escort

To start off, 1983 Ford Escort is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (146 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III weights approximately 130 kg more than 1983 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III 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 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (111 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III 1983 Ford Escort
Make Austin-Healey Ford
Model 3000 Mk III Escort
Year Released 1963 1983
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2912 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 146 HP 51 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 165 Nm 111 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1180 kg 1050 kg
Vehicle Length 4010 mm 4170 mm
Vehicle Width 1540 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1250 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2340 mm 2400 mm