2003 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (113 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 146 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 2003 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 2003 BMW M3. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (250 Nm @ 1850 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Focus |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1752 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
