1981 Ford Escort vs. 2011 BMW 530
To start off, 2011 BMW 530 is newer by 30 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 530 (271 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1981 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Escort.
Because 2011 BMW 530 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 2011 BMW 530. 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, 2011 BMW 530 (310 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Escort | 2011 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Escort | 530 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2968 mm |
