1970 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Mazda 3

To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,261 cc, 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1970 Ford Escort. (98 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Ford Escort.

Because 1970 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 1970 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Ford Escort. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1970 Ford Escort 2008 Mazda 3
Make Ford Mazda
Model Escort 3
Year Released 1970 2008
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1599 cc 2261 cc
Horse Power 98 HP 257 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 125 Nm 380 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Top Speed 156 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 4680 mm
Vehicle Width 1570 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1350 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 41 L 55 L