1991 Ford Escort vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1991 Ford Escort is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,962 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1991 Ford Escort. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Escort weights approximately 245 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Because 1974 Mazda RX-3 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 1974 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1991 Ford Escort (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Escort | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1858 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2320 mm |
