2008 BMW X3 vs. 1986 Ford Escort

To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 948 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 X3 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 X3. 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 X3 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (83 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1986 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1986 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW X3 1986 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model X3 Escort
Year Released 2008 1986
Body Type SUV Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 1115 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 260 HP 48 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 315 Nm 83 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 2700 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 74 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 65 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.7:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 210 km/hour 145 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1818 kg 870 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1860 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 48 L