1986 Ford Escort vs. 1973 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,964 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Escort weights approximately 58 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1973 Mazda RX-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 1973 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1973 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1973 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |
