1999 BMW 323 vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 74 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 323 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 1999 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1999 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 323 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
