1998 BMW 323 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 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 36 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2008 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, 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 (320 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (246 Nm). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2008 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 323 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1422 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
