1998 Ford Focus vs. 2006 BMW 535

To start off, 2006 BMW 535 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 535 (268 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 535 weights approximately 496 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 BMW 535 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 2006 BMW 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 BMW 535 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 390 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2006 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Ford Focus 2006 BMW 535
Make Ford BMW
Model Focus 535
Year Released 1998 2006
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1797 cc 2993 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 134 HP 268 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 560 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 90 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 19.4:1 16.5:1
Top Speed 184 km/hour 250 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 12.9 seconds 6.5 seconds
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1244 kg 1740 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2890 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 70 L