1977 BMW 520 vs. 1983 Ford Escort
To start off, 1983 Ford Escort is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 BMW 520 (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 BMW 520 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1983 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 BMW 520 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 1977 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1977 BMW 520 (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (111 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1977 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 BMW 520 | 1983 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 520 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2400 mm |
