1983 Ford Escort vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 1983 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 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 2006 Mazda 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (111 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Escort | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2650 mm |
