2008 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Ford Escort
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Escort would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1998 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 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 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 1998 Ford Escort | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Escort |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
