1984 Ford Escort vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (53 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1984 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW Z3 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 2002 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Escort | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Escort | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1608 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 91 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
