1989 BMW Z1 vs. 1982 Ford Escort

To start off, 1989 BMW Z1 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1982 Ford Escort. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1982 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW Z1 weights approximately 326 kg more than 1982 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1989 BMW Z1 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 1989 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1989 BMW Z1 (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (137 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1989 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

1989 BMW Z1 1982 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model Z1 Escort
Year Released 1989 1982
Body Type Roadster Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 1597 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 103 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 231 Nm 137 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.8 mm 79.5 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1250 kg 924 kg
Vehicle Length 3960 mm 4060 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1280 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2410 mm