1986 BMW 325 vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (212 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1986 BMW 325. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 25 kg more than 1986 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 325 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 1986 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Focus (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 325. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 325 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
