1979 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1979 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1979 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 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 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Ford Escort | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Escort | 3 |
Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 939 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 45 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 60 Nm | 182 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |