1986 Ford Escort vs. 1981 BMW M1
To start off, 1986 Ford Escort is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW M1 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW M1 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 1981 BMW M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1981 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1981 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 1981 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Escort | M1 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 116 L |
