1996 Ford Escort vs. 2010 BMW M3
To start off, 2010 BMW M3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 302 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (112 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW M3 weights approximately 755 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2010 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (173 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2010 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2010 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Escort | M3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 63 L |
