1998 Ford Focus vs. 2012 BMW 116
To start off, 2012 BMW 116 is newer by 14 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 116 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 116 (136 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 116 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 116 weights approximately 270 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 2012 BMW 116 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 2012 BMW 116. 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, 2012 BMW 116 (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 116 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2012 BMW 116 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Focus | 116 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4324 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
