1996 Ford Escort vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 15 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP) has 141 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 465 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 2011 BMW 325 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 2011 BMW 325. 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, 2011 BMW 325 (271 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Escort | 325 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
