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 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 90 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 72 kg more than 1998 BMW 318.
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 (215 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 25 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 | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.9 seconds | 13.1 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 | 1362 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
