1996 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Escort (131 HP) has 50 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 72 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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, 1996 Ford Escort (172 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (141 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | 2 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1152 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 45 L |
