1975 Ford Escort vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1975 Ford Escort. (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1975 Ford Escort.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Ford Escort. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1975 Ford Escort 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Ford Mazda
Model Escort MX-5 Miata
Year Released 1975 2006
Body Type Coupe Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1598 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 84 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 125 Nm 188 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 5000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors