2008 Ford Focus vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 7 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2001 BMW Z3. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 62 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus.
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, 2008 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 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (196 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Focus | Z3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1283 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
