2008 BMW 550 vs. 1989 Ford Escort

To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Escort would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 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 1989 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 730 kg more than 1989 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, 1989 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 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 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 1989 Ford Escort. 2008 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 550 1989 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model 550 Escort
Year Released 2008 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4799 cc 1753 cc
Horse Power 360 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 490 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.3 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 21.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1660 kg 930 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4050 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L