2008 BMW M3 vs. 1986 Ford Escort
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 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 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 280 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 660 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 M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1986 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Escort |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 151 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
