2001 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Ford Focus

To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 8 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 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 629 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (132 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 BMW M3 2009 Ford Focus
Make BMW Ford
Model M3 Focus
Year Released 2001 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3246 cc 1999 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 342 HP 141 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 502 Nm 132 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1595 kg 966 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4490 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2740 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 70 L