2003 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Ford Focus

To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2005 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 BMW 520 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 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Ford Focus (245 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 520 2005 Ford Focus
Make BMW Ford
Model 520 Focus
Year Released 2003 2005
Body Type Station Wagon Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2170 cc 1558 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 167 HP 108 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 245 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 88.3 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1670 kg 1435 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 45 L