1981 BMW 518 vs. 1990 Ford Escort
To start off, 1990 Ford Escort is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Ford Escort (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1990 Ford Escort.
Because 1981 BMW 518 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 1981 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1981 BMW 518 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Escort. (135 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 1990 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 518 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
