1986 Ford Escort vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 175 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 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1986 Ford Escort | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Escort | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1986 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1392 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 112 HP |
Torque | 109 Nm | 124 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2270 mm |