1983 Ford Escort vs. 1977 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1983 Ford Escort is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Escort weights approximately 198 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1977 Mazda RX-3 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 1977 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1977 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (111 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1977 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Escort | 1977 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2320 mm |
