1986 Ford Escort vs. 2011 BMW 323
To start off, 2011 BMW 323 is newer by 25 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort.
Because 2011 BMW 323 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 2011 BMW 323. 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, 2011 BMW 323 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Escort | 2011 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Escort | 323 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
