1996 BMW Z3 vs. 2009 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (296 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 25 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 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 Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Ford Focus (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW Z3 | 2009 Ford Focus | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | Z3 | Focus |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2501 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 296 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 275 Nm | 410 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4190 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |