2008 BMW 318 vs. 1986 Ford Escort

To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 22 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (113 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 620 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 2008 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 2008 BMW 318. 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, 2008 BMW 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 318 1986 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model 318 Escort
Year Released 2008 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1392 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 113 HP 75 HP
Torque 280 Nm 109 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 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
Top Speed 202 km/hour 167 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1470 kg 850 kg
Vehicle Length 4270 mm 4030 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2410 mm