1986 Ford Escort vs. 2011 BMW 535
To start off, 2011 BMW 535 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 535 (311 HP) has 233 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (78 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 535 weights approximately 865 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 2011 BMW 535 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 535. 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 535 (600 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 473 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (127 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 535 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 535 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Escort | 535 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 311 HP |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
