1981 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 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 2,260 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 596 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2260 cc |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2650 mm |
