1986 Ford Escort vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 435 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 18.2 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
