1989 Ford Escort vs. 1978 Mazda 121
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda 121 (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 1978 Mazda 121 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 1978 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1978 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 1978 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 121 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1700 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
