1984 Ford Escort vs. 2008 BMW Z4

To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 24 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (53 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 490 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 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (91 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort. 2008 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1984 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1984 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1984 Ford Escort 2008 BMW Z4
Make Ford BMW
Model Escort Z4
Year Released 1984 2008
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1608 cc 2496 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 53 HP 215 HP
Engine RPM 4700 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 91 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 2750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80.1 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 78.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 21.5:1 11.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 870 kg 1360 kg
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 4100 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1310 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2500 mm