1986 Ford Escort vs. 2006 BMW 320

To start off, 2006 BMW 320 is newer by 20 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 320 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 320 weights approximately 895 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 2006 BMW 320 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 2006 BMW 320. 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, 2006 BMW 320 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2006 BMW 320 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. 2006 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 2006 BMW 320
Make Ford BMW
Model Escort 320
Year Released 1986 2006
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1117 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 49 HP 161 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 83 Nm 340 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Top Speed 140 km/hour 225 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 790 kg 1685 kg
Vehicle Length 4050 mm 4530 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2610 mm 2770 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 48 L 60 L