1985 Ford Escort vs. 2013 BMW 1 Series

To start off, 2013 BMW 1 Series is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 BMW 1 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 1 Series (296 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1985 Ford Escort. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 1 Series should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Escort.

Because 2013 BMW 1 Series 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 2013 BMW 1 Series. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2013 BMW 1 Series (407 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 1 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Ford Escort 2013 BMW 1 Series
Make Ford BMW
Model Escort 1 Series
Year Released 1985 2013
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1296 cc 2979 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 68 HP 296 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 103 Nm 407 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 4373 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1919 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1408 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2660 mm