1978 BMW 520 vs. 2003 Ford Focus
To start off, 2003 Ford Focus is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 520 (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2003 Ford Focus. (108 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 470 kg more than 2003 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1978 BMW 520 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Focus. (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 2003 Ford Focus | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 520 | Focus |
Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 169 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 85.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |