1977 BMW 520 vs. 1998 Ford Focus
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 BMW 520 weights approximately 164 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus.
Because 1977 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 1977 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, both vehicles can yield 160 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 BMW 520 | 1998 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 520 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 9.2 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 | 1310 kg | 1146 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
