1996 BMW 535 vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1996 BMW 535 is newer by 10 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 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 535 (232 HP) has 157 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 535 weights approximately 812 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 1996 BMW 535 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 535. 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, 1996 BMW 535 (320 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 535 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 535 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
