1998 Ford Focus vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 280 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 411 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 M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 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 M3 | |
Make | Ford | BMW |
Model | Focus | M3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1797 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 75.2 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1655 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4615 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1803 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1424 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2761 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |