1986 Ford Escort vs. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 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 1,608 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (97 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 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 | 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Escort | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1608 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 112 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 97 Nm | 124 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2270 mm |