1986 Ford Escort vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 620 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 Z4 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 Z4. 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 Z4 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 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 Z4 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Escort | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
