1981 Ford Escort vs. 1991 Mazda 121
To start off, 1991 Mazda 121 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mazda 121 (71 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Ford Escort weights approximately 134 kg more than 1991 Mazda 121.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 1981 Ford Escort (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 121. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 1991 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 121 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1322 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2460 mm |
