1981 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 100 kg more than 1981 BMW 520.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Ford Focus (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2008 Ford Focus | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 520 | Focus |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1560 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 18.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2000 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |