1986 Ford Escort vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 975 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 M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 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 M3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Escort | M3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1751 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 151 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 63 L |
