1981 BMW 725 vs. 1986 Ford Escort

To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 725 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (61 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 725 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort.

Because 1981 BMW 725 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 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 725 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (101 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1981 BMW 725 1986 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model 725 Escort
Year Released 1981 1986
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2493 cc 1297 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 61 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 215 Nm 101 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 71.6 mm 64.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.6:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2810 mm 2410 mm