2002 BMW 320 vs. 1988 Ford Escort

To start off, 2002 BMW 320 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 320 (148 HP) has 73 more horse power than 1988 Ford Escort. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Escort.

Because 2002 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 2002 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2002 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

2002 BMW 320 1988 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model 320 Escort
Year Released 2002 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1392 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 148 HP 75 HP
Torque 330 Nm 109 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 77 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 74 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 17.0:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 54 L