1985 Ford Escort vs. 1988 Mazda 323
To start off, 1988 Mazda 323 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Escort (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323.
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, 1985 Ford Escort (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 1988 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 323 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1480 mm |
