1986 Ford Escort vs. 1998 Mazda 121
To start off, 1998 Mazda 121 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 121 (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 121 weights approximately 81 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.
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, both vehicles can yield 110 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1998 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 121 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 991 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2460 mm |
