2009 BMW 530 vs. 1980 Ford Escort

To start off, 2009 BMW 530 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Escort would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (79 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 530 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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 530 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 530 1980 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model 530 Escort
Year Released 2009 1980
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 1597 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 254 HP 79 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3000 RPM
Top Speed 250 km/hour 167 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1280 kg 865 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 3980 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2400 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 40 L