2001 BMW M vs. 1986 Ford Orion

To start off, 2001 BMW M is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Orion would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1986 Ford Orion. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M weights approximately 445 kg more than 1986 Ford Orion. 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, 1986 Ford Orion, 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 (345 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Orion. (133 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Orion. 1986 Ford Orion has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Ford Orion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW M 1986 Ford Orion
Make BMW Ford
Model M Orion
Year Released 2001 1986
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3169 cc 1597 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 320 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 345 Nm 133 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 4800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 245 km/hour 174 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1375 kg 930 kg
Vehicle Length 4030 mm 4220 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2410 mm