1997 Ford Escort vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 168 kg more than 1997 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mazda RX-8 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
