1988 Ford Escort vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Escort (89 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Escort weights approximately 155 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. 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, 1988 Ford Escort (145 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Escort | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 323 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
