1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 71 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2650 mm |
