1988 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Ford Focus

To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 61 kg more than 1988 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 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 1988 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 520 2008 Ford Focus
Make BMW Ford
Model 520 Focus
Year Released 1988 2008
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1989 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 129 HP 134 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 174 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 85 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 18.0:1
Top Speed 202 km/hour 205 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 12.5 seconds 10.3 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1570 kg 1631 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4520 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.9 L/100km 5.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 53 L