1980 Ford Escort vs. 1977 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1980 Ford Escort is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (79 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Ford Escort weights approximately 43 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1977 Mazda RX-3 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 1977 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Ford Escort, 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, 1977 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1977 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Ford Escort | 1977 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 65 L |
