1983 BMW 316 vs. 1995 Ford Escort

To start off, 1995 Ford Escort is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Ford Escort (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Escort weights approximately 100 kg more than 1983 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 BMW 316 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 1983 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1995 Ford Escort (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316. 1983 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 1995 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1995 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1983 BMW 316 1995 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model 316 Escort
Year Released 1983 1995
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1765 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 88 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 150 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 990 kg 1090 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4310 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1450 mm