2000 Ford Escort vs. 1976 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2000 Ford Escort is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Ford Escort (128 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1976 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Ford Escort weights approximately 274 kg more than 1976 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mazda RX-3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Ford Escort (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ford Escort | 1976 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1124 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 65 L |
