1976 Ford Escort vs. 1980 Mazda 323
To start off, 1980 Mazda 323 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1976 Ford Escort. (45 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mazda 323 weights approximately 4 kg more than 1976 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1980 Mazda 323 (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Escort | 1980 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 323 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 939 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2370 mm |
