1972 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 58 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 520 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 1972 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1972 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 520 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1387 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |
