2008 BMW 118 vs. 2003 Ford Focus

To start off, 2008 BMW 118 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 118 (127 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2003 Ford Focus. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 118 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2003 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 BMW 118 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 2008 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2008 BMW 118 (180 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Focus. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Focus.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 118 2003 Ford Focus
Make BMW Ford
Model 118 Focus
Year Released 2008 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 1387 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 127 HP 73 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 180 Nm 125 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 11.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1230 kg 1190 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4390 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 55 L