1998 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Ford Focus
To start off, 2012 Ford Focus is newer by 14 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Focus (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 126 kg more than 2012 Ford Focus.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Ford Focus (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 318 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4450 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1319 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1824 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 47 L |
