1999 BMW 540 vs. 2009 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (296 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1999 BMW 540. (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 540. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 491 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus.
Because 1999 BMW 540 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 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 540 (439 Nm) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (410 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus. 2009 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1999 BMW 540 has manual transmission. 1999 BMW 540 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 540 | 2009 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 540 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 410 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1771 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
