2008 BMW 550 vs. 1986 Ford Escort

To start off, 2008 BMW 550 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 301 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 820 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 550 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 550. 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 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 379 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 550 1986 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model 550 Escort
Year Released 2008 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4800 cc 1751 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 360 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 489 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 2500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Top Speed 241 km/hour 151 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1730 kg 910 kg
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 45 L