1985 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1985 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
