2001 BMW M3 vs. 2006 Ford Focus

To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (137 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Focus weights approximately 60 kg more than 2001 BMW M3.

Because 2001 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2001 BMW M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Focus. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Focus.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW M3 2006 Ford Focus
Make BMW Ford
Model M3 Focus
Year Released 2001 2006
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3246 cc 1983 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 326 HP 137 HP
Engine RPM 7900 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 355 Nm 180 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 85 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 9.6:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1655 kg 1715 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4290 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 8.8 L/100km 6.9 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 17.9 L/100km 9.1 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 12.1 L/100km 8.1 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 53 L