1968 Ford Escort vs. 2001 Mazda 323
To start off, 2001 Mazda 323 is newer by 33 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda 323 (124 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1968 Ford Escort. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford Escort.
Because 1968 Ford Escort 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 1968 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mazda 323, 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, 2001 Mazda 323 (167 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford Escort. (67 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Ford Escort | 2001 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 323 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 939 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 67 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 41 L | 55 L |
