1998 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 60 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 1998 BMW 318. 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 (196 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2008 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 318 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.9 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
