1983 Ford Escort vs. 2009 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1983 Ford Escort. (70 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 570 kg more than 1983 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 2009 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Escort. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Escort | 2009 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Escort | 320 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2730 mm |
