1986 Ford Escort vs. 2009 Mazda 3

To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 23 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 1,751 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 350 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 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 2009 Mazda 3
Make Ford Mazda
Model Escort 3
Year Released 1986 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 1560 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 21.5:1 18.3:1
Fuel Type Diesel Diesel
Top Speed 151 km/hour 180 km/hour
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 910 kg 1260 kg
Vehicle Length 4090 mm 4430 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 55 L