1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 12 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 485 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 1998 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 1998 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
