2004 Ford Escape vs. 1996 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2004 Ford Escape is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (238 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2004 Ford Escape. (203 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Escape. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Escape weights approximately 141 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1996 Mazda RX-7 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 1996 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Escape, 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, 1996 Mazda RX-7 (296 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Escape. (272 Nm). This means 1996 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Escape.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Escape | 1996 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escape | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1443 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 77 L |
