2004 Ford Focus vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW Z3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW Z3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 116 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 2001 BMW Z3 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 Z3. 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (166 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Focus | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2450 mm |
