1982 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 466 kg more than 1982 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2011 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Ford Escort, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (137 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Ford Escort | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 924 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 64 L |
