2005 BMW 525 vs. 1996 Ford Escort

To start off, 2005 BMW 525 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 525 (215 HP) has 141 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 525 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 BMW 525 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 2005 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2005 BMW 525 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 2005 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 525 1996 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model 525 Escort
Year Released 2005 1996
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1391 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 74 HP
Torque 250 Nm 114 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 2750 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1665 kg 1080 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4300 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1390 mm