1989 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Escort | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Escort | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 109 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 83.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 3980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 50 L |