1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 385 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 Z3 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 Z3. 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 Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1115 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 65 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 48 L |
