1981 Ford Escort vs. 2010 BMW 118

To start off, 2010 BMW 118 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 118 (177 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 118 weights approximately 441 kg more than 1981 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2010 BMW 118 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 2010 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 2010 BMW 118 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Ford Escort 2010 BMW 118
Make Ford BMW
Model Escort 118
Year Released 1981 2010
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1598 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 70 HP 177 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 121 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 1750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 954 kg 1395 kg
Vehicle Length 4170 mm 4360 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1748 mm
Vehicle Height 1360 mm 1423 mm
Wheelbase Size 2400 mm 2660 mm