1998 Ford Focus vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 249 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 Z4 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 Z4. 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 Z4 (316 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Focus | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
