1998 BMW 320 vs. 2006 Ford Focus

To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 320 (150 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (113 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 154 kg more than 2006 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Ford Focus (250 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 320 2006 Ford Focus
Make BMW Ford
Model 320 Focus
Year Released 1998 2006
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 1752 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 113 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1850 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 82 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Top Speed 225 km/hour 190 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.2 seconds 10.9 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1465 kg 1311 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4460 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1540 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L