1986 Ford Escort vs. 2012 BMW 320

To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 26 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), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort.

Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Ford Escort 2012 BMW 320
Make Ford BMW
Model Escort 320
Year Released 1986 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 182 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 110 Nm 380 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 90 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 84 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Diesel
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 Length 4090 mm 4624 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1811 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1384 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2810 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 57 L