1984 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,306 cc, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Escort.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Escort | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 1306 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2710 mm |
