1986 Ford Escort vs. 1977 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda RX-4 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mazda RX-4 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda RX-4 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 1977 Mazda RX-4. 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, 1977 Mazda RX-4 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1977 Mazda RX-4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1977 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 165 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 | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |
