2009 BMW 125 vs. 1996 Ford Escort

To start off, 2009 BMW 125 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 125 (216 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (131 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 125 weights approximately 168 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 125 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 2009 BMW 125. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2009 BMW 125 (270 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (172 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 125 1996 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model 125 Escort
Year Released 2009 1996
Body Type Convertible Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 1988 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 216 HP 131 HP
Engine RPM 6700 RPM 5750 RPM
Torque 270 Nm 172 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 84.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.7:1 9.6:1
Top Speed 238 km/hour 164 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1320 kg 1152 kg
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 4460 mm
Vehicle Width 1420 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2510 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 48 L