1996 BMW 332 vs. 2001 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2001 Ford Fiesta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 2001 Ford Fiesta. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 415 kg more than 2001 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 332 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 1996 BMW 332. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1996 BMW 332 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Fiesta. (160 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 2001 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 332 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2490 mm |
