1988 BMW 316 vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1988 BMW 316 is newer by 2 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 316 (86 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (78 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 915 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 1988 BMW 316 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 1988 BMW 316. 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, both vehicles can yield 127 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 316 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 316 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 78 HP |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
