1998 BMW 323 vs. 2005 Ford Focus
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (108 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 272 kg more than 2005 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1998 BMW 323 (246 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (146 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2005 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 323 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
