1973 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Ford Focus
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (136 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Focus weights approximately 445 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.
Because 1973 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 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Focus. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2006 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 53 L |
