2009 Ford Escape vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Ford Escape is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Escape (172 HP @ 6550 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Escape weights approximately 140 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Ford Escape is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Escape will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Ford Escape (302 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (117 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 2009 Ford Escape has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Escape will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Escape | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escape | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6550 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 302 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1022 kg | 882 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 45 L |
