2005 BMW 535 vs. 1986 Ford Escort

To start off, 2005 BMW 535 is newer by 19 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 3,428 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 535 (241 HP) has 166 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 535 weights approximately 790 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 2005 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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 535 (330 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

2005 BMW 535 1986 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model 535 Escort
Year Released 2005 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3428 cc 1392 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 241 HP 75 HP
Torque 330 Nm 109 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 77.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.9 mm 74 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1685 kg 895 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2500 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 54 L