1980 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Mazda Tribute

To start off, 2003 Mazda Tribute is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Tribute (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 715 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Tribute will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Mazda Tribute (231 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort. 2003 Mazda Tribute has automatic transmission and 1980 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1980 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda Tribute will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Ford Escort 2003 Mazda Tribute
Make Ford Mazda
Model Escort Tribute
Year Released 1980 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 939 cc 2967 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 45 HP 194 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 60 Nm 231 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 875 kg 1590 kg
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1600 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1720 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2270 mm