2001 BMW M vs. 1980 Ford Escort

To start off, 2001 BMW M is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (325 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 246 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (79 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M weights approximately 480 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 BMW M 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 M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 M (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (125 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW M 1980 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model M Escort
Year Released 2001 1980
Body Type Convertible Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3300 cc 1597 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 325 HP 79 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 125 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 250 km/hour 165 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1375 kg 895 kg
Vehicle Length 4030 mm 4040 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2400 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 51 L 40 L