1986 Ford Escort vs. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 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), 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP) has 92 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 275 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 2010 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 2010 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, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 167 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2329 mm |
