1983 BMW 320 vs. 1968 Ford Escort

To start off, 1983 BMW 320 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 320 (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1968 Ford Escort. (54 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 320 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1968 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1983 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1968 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, 1983 BMW 320 (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford Escort. (82 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1983 BMW 320 1968 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model 320 Escort
Year Released 1983 1968
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1991 cc 1117 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 120 HP 54 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 171 Nm 82 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80.1 mm 74 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 65 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.8:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1050 kg 810 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 3980 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2400 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 40 L