1981 Ford Escort vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 193 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 323 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 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 |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2850 mm |
