1998 BMW 323 vs. 2009 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 11 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 (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 163 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 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 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (175 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2009 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 323 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8 seconds | 14.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1267 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
