1985 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 26 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort.
Because 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 124 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
