1998 Ford Focus vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 13 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 272 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 824 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 2011 BMW 550 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 2011 BMW 550. 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 449 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2011 BMW 550 | |
Make | Ford | BMW |
Model | Focus | 550 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1988 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4905 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1859 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1463 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2969 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |