1986 Ford Escort vs. 2001 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2001 Mazda Roadster is newer by 15 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda Roadster (197 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda Roadster weights approximately 155 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 2001 Mazda Roadster 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 2001 Mazda Roadster. 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, 2001 Mazda Roadster (196 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2001 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2270 mm |
