2003 BMW X3 vs. 1986 Ford Escort

To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 930 kg more than 1986 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Ford Escort. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW X3 1986 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model X3 Escort
Year Released 2003 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2492 cc 1751 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 185 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 21.5:1
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1840 kg 910 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 45 L