1986 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 18 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 410 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.2 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 61 L |
