1998 Ford Escort vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1998 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1998 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Escort. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Escort | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Escort | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1311 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 114 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |