2001 BMW 320 vs. 1996 Ford Escort
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 5 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 320 (170 HP) has 96 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 576 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 2001 BMW 320 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 320. 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, 2001 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 320 | 1996 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 320 | Escort |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
