1989 BMW 518 vs. 2005 Ford Focus
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1989 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1989 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Focus weights approximately 82 kg more than 1989 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 BMW 518 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 1989 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Ford Focus (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 518 | 2005 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 518 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1242 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
