1996 BMW 523 vs. 1988 Ford Escort
To start off, 1996 BMW 523 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 523 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1988 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 520 kg more than 1988 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 1996 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1996 BMW 523 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Escort. (145 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 523 | 1988 Ford Escort | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 523 | Escort |
Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1859 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2400 mm |