2001 BMW 318 vs. 1989 Ford Escort

To start off, 2001 BMW 318 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1989 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 BMW 318 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 2001 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2001 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort. 2001 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW 318 1989 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model 318 Escort
Year Released 2001 1989
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1753 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 148 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 200 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 21.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1485 kg 930 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4050 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L