1988 BMW 535 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 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 423 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 BMW 535 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 535. 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, 1988 BMW 535 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 535 2008 Ford Focus
Make BMW Ford
Model 535 Focus
Year Released 1988 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3430 cc 1999 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 310 Nm 184 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 83.1 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1530 kg 1107 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 2000 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 52 L 51 L