1995 Ford Escort vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Ford Escort (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Escort weights approximately 40 kg more than 1998 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, both vehicles can yield 134 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1995 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1995 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Ford Escort | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 323 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
