1998 Ford Focus vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 10 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (131 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 313 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 2008 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 2008 BMW 320. 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, 2008 BMW 320 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2008 BMW 320 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. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Focus | 320 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.8 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 63 L |
