1983 BMW 320 vs. 2008 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1983 BMW 320. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 233 kg more than 1983 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 320 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 1983 BMW 320. 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 (196 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 320. (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 320 | 2008 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 320 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1283 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
