2008 BMW X3 vs. 2004 Ford Focus

To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,979 cc, 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 575 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 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Ford Focus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW X3 2004 Ford Focus
Make BMW Ford
Model X3 Focus
Year Released 2008 2004
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2979 cc 1388 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 228 HP 73 HP
Engine RPM 5900 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 125 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89.6 mm 76 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 11.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1765 kg 1190 kg
Vehicle Length 4570 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1860 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1680 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 67 L 55 L