1986 Ford Escort vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (228 HP) has 153 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 505 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 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, 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2002 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Escort | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 228 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 51 L |
