2004 BMW 318 vs. 1998 Ford Escort
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1998 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2004 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1998 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 318 | Escort |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
