1990 BMW 520 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 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 520 weights approximately 159 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus.

Because 1990 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 1990 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 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 520 2008 Ford Focus
Make BMW Ford
Model 520 Focus
Year Released 1990 2008
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1991 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 145 HP 0 HP
Torque 186 Nm 320 Nm
Torque RPM 4700 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 85 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 88 mm
Top Speed 206 km/hour 205 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1542 kg 1383 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4490 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 2000 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2650 mm