1981 Ford Escort vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 531 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Escort | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Escort | 3 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 141 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 121 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1485 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4420 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2650 mm |