1959 BMW Isetta vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 1980 Ford Escort is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW Isetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW Isetta would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ford Escort (96 HP) has 83 more horse power than 1959 BMW Isetta. (13 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW Isetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Ford Escort weights approximately 535 kg more than 1959 BMW Isetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 BMW Isetta 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 1959 BMW Isetta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW Isetta | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Isetta | Escort |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 247 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | single | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 96 HP |
| Top Speed | 85 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 1 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 360 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2300 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1510 mm | 2400 mm |
