1996 BMW M3 vs. 1984 Ford Escort
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP) has 277 more horse power than 1984 Ford Escort. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 798 kg more than 1984 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 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 M3 (305 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Escort. (85 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1984 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 1117 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 65 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
