1968 Ford Escort vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,290 cc, 1978 Mazda RX-2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1968 Ford Escort. (55 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-2 should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda RX-2 weights approximately 89 kg more than 1968 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda RX-2 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 1978 Mazda RX-2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 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, 1978 Mazda RX-2 (157 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford Escort. (82 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda RX-2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Ford Escort | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Escort | RX-2 |
Year Released | 1968 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1117 cc | 2290 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 55 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 82 Nm | 157 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 871 kg | 960 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2480 mm |