1998 Ford Focus vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 320 weights approximately 246 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 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 2012 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, 2012 BMW 320 (270 Nm @ 1250 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 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 320 | |
Make | Ford | BMW |
Model | Focus | 320 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4624 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1811 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1429 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |