1990 BMW 316 vs. 2008 Ford Focus

To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 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 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 30 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. 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 (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2008 Ford Focus
Make BMW Ford
Model 316 Focus
Year Released 1990 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 184 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4250 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.8:1
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 1080 kg 1110 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 2000 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 51 L