2009 BMW 550 vs. 1986 Ford Escort

To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 23 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 4,798 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1986 Ford Escort. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 750 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 2009 BMW 550 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 550. 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, 2009 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Escort. (110 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Escort. 2009 BMW 550 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. 2009 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 550 1986 Ford Escort
Make BMW Ford
Model 550 Escort
Year Released 2009 1986
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4798 cc 1751 cc
Horse Power 362 HP 59 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 490 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 2500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.3 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 21.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Top Speed 250 km/hour 151 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1660 kg 910 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1470 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 45 L