1998 BMW 317 vs. 1982 Ford Escort
To start off, 1998 BMW 317 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Ford Escort (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 431 kg more than 1982 Ford Escort.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 1998 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Ford Escort. (137 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 1982 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 317 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 924 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
