BMW M140i & Ford Focus RS - an owner's 534 day REVIEW

An honest long term review of 534 days owning each of BMW's 2017 M140i and Ford's 2017 Focus RS.
That's it, no more comparisons between the two, I promise!
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[@m140i_james]

As a M140i owner I was sat there praying you picked the BMW. But I think that is the problem with a lot of hot hatch owners. Very brand defensive, almost territorial. Rather than just say, "yeah that other model is a good car", it's a bit more, "nah it's shit. Not as good as mine." I love my M140i, and wouldn't touch a Focus because I love how my car is. But does that make the RS a bad car? No. It does things differently. Some better, some worse as you've pointed out. People should just recognise other hot hatches are good cars also, even if you personally don't like it. Great video though, Mark.

[@tomwoolley5410]

This is the best comment I have ever seen on KZbin. People get so defensive of their car and hate on everything else. If everyone liked the same car the world will be a very boring place! Respect to you bud for appreciating other brands!!

[@tracktimevideos5164]

Indeed there are so many great cars in this category. I30N, WRX STi, Golf R, Megane Trophy, A45, RS3 etc etc. You couldn't really buy a crap one even of you tried.

[@CaravanningwiththeCoxs]

Definitely mate. Really annoys me how defensive people get. Every car has it’s good points. I have an RS but I am not brand loyal. As their is now new RS so you never know what might be next.

[@Taylor40667]

Exactly Mate, I think the same way you do but I love my rs and couldn’t have a m140i for its 118d looks apart from that its great. There are no bad hot hatches its all personal preference

[@PureLeeful]

Very well put. We're lucky to have such great and different choices. I love my Megane but sure I'd love one of the other great hot hatches out there. Be nice to have them all though! 👍👍

[@mutezone]

Many congrats on the 10k + subs. You definitely deserve it, as I subscribed because of your honesty & not being a brand fanboy. This is also what I got from this video & watched it from start to finish.

[@MarkCup70]

👏👍 Thank you!

[@TheShinyShow]

Hate how everyone has to say "these are my opinions based on my experience" on literally everything now, some people just don't understand you can have a different opinion.

[@sheilamorrison1954]

Really you hate that people HAVE to say that otherwise fan boys get butthurt

[@IOWPCV]

Great vid Mark,glad to see your keeping well! Stay safe.

[@roblanger5546]

Good review - I've been looking to swap my Golf R for an M140i and this review has been helpful thanks

[@michaelb9664]

A really well articulated comparison. It’s nice to get real peoples opinions from real life experiences. I haven’t driven either, but I’ve been a passenger in a M140i. Very quick and smooth car. Drawing from your conclusions I think I’d favour the RS for the feel and connection. Good video 👍

[@robertwest3524]

wonderful honest opinion... thank you and much enjoyed

[@STEVEBHPDEVON]

Great video mark good to hear what you thought and I think fair cheers Steve 😀👍

[@davidheavey7478]

Nice balanced and enjoyable video Mark.

[@peter.russell]

Great comparison review. Am amazed the beemer has no temp or pressure gauges, madness. 👍

[@michaelhesford5191]

Great video mark 👍 just like you said that’s your opinion .. I love the rawness of the rs.. I also think it’s more comfy then what people think.. I have no bad things to say about the bmw it’s a great car.. I’m just not a massive fan of the look 😁 hope your ok and staying safe 💎

[@sparkyt6497]

I think you’ve done an interesting very comprehensive enjoyable comparison congrats from me

[@michaelmellett2774]

Great video as usual. Laughed at the question about other road users! Everyone wants to race me in my RS

[@MarkCup70]

My commute is at a time when the roads are super quiet, and the rest of my mileage is carving along country roads so I'm very fortunate...my time interacting with other road users is very limited.

[@JeanV1986]

Very interesting comparison! Thanks man!

[@celtos255]

nice review of them. i think its basically how nearly every german hot hatch compares to a "cheaper" brand of hot hatch. Id almost say the same things comparing my old fiesta st to my current gti clubsport.

[@powellj27]

Great to see a video Mark in these difficult and restricted times. I trust you and the family are well and staying safe? I test drove a 140i just before the lockdown. Liked the car but I still prefer the RS, so I never moved to the bmw. I do agree the built quality is superior compared to the focus and it definitely felt more comfortable for a longer journeys. I would not dismiss the 140i completely and if it was possible I would most likely have both 😂

[@DazzaST225]

I have owned my MK3 RS from brand new, I totally get what you are saying about the RS. I feel for you as you don't modify your vehicles its 100% bang on. Of course I purchased coil overs and this has improved massively and made me feel like how you do in your M140i. For my own point of view is that "IF" this early head gasket debacle did not arise I feel you would of kept your RS. Good video Mark and take care!

[@jasoncannadine1553]

Top comparison video 👍🏼🙌🏼

[@omari089]

I needed this. Thankyou

[@tan9640]

Great video. Would’ve chosen the m140i all day before hand and now even more so

[@genemorgan6033]

Great video and imho very well balanced... I've owned a 1M40 for approximately 6 weeks. I simply love the sound of the 6 cylinder engine. I did consider a Focus RS but thought its overall image was a bit shouty and possibly a little bit too hard core as a daily driver. I would like to own the RS but think I would only use it as a weekend toy.

[@retrologic597]

Great video 👍. Would be interesting for me to hear how the M140i compares to your old Mk7 Fiesta ST as that’s a change I’m considering but worried I might miss the fun factor of the ST. Hmmm....

[@jasonmcconnell7131]

Great video Mark - thank you.

[@TheTechGiantYouTube]

One of the best and worst things i noticed about your RS ownership was the other RS owners. They all seemed to be very nice and a great family to be a part of when you owned an RS but the second you turned your back on the RS life a lot went for the jugular.Pretty sad that some get so shirty because you changed you car,i have even seen people slag you off on other KZbin videos because you got rid of your RS. Just wanted to thank you again Mark for you video you made about the different cameras you use in the car,i ended up buying the Hero 7 black as it was on offer for £220 on Amazon,now i've just got to wait for my A45s Plus to turn up and start the filming.

[@bensadler5426]

The Tech Giant Even Focus RS owners who are fairly critical of their cars get ostracised by the RS community. Some are okay but in all my car ownership life I've never met another group like them.

[@CaravanningwiththeCoxs]

It’s a shame, you want to go on some forums... I stopped going on them! I love the car community. But some people just spoil it. I love Mark’s channel because I genuinely enjoy watching his videos. Not because of his car. I’m also a massive ‘geek’ so it’s nice to see someone else like it...

[@MarkCup70]

When I told Reg I'd agreed a deal to trade the RS for the 140 he warned me, said the Ford v BMW rivalry was strong...I was dismissive, yeah, yeah, yeah I thought. I'd had a hard time from the community already for daring to speak the truth and my thoughts on the engine issues...but the reaction from them at the news of the 140 was comical! I still can't get my head around it to this day! I've had people contact me just to say because of the engine issues I suffered in my RS, any further opinion I had on anything couldn't be trusted. FLOL 😂 As you may have gathered my lengthy disclaimer in this video was intended mostly for them.

[@TheTechGiantYouTube]

@@MarkCup70 being a tuber myself I know exactly what it's like having to constantly explain yourself,especially getting across what is YOUR personal opinion,some people seem to struggle with personal opinions. I wonder if the same will happen if you move on from the BMW.

[@DiscoFish1]

Great to see a mixed review of two great cars, I'm an ST owner and I'm a little biased there obviously but you can't deny that the M140i are brilliant cars, there's so much toxicity in todays car scene that it shocks me how so called car enthusiasts can't just appreciate a good car when they see one, regardless of what badge is on it.

[@richardblacklee7831]

Well done Mark, as you say, an honest long term review. I took delivery of my 2017 Focus RS a couple of months before you. I have debated changing it, purely for the sake of change, and borrowed a BMW for a month to try it, but decided I enjoy the Ford too much to let it go. There will always be quick BMWs but we may not see another RS like this one!

[@ben130i8]

The same can be said for the BMW M140i because they don't make a RWD Inline 6 hatchback anymore.

[@edlakota]

Fantastic video. As a fellow geek in I love the detail.

[@MarkCup70]

It's all about the detail and data for me, I can never get enough of it 😀

[@thechickenman2289]

That strait 6 is a weapon and it's so understated

[@dungareesareforfools]

Great comparison, I love both cars. There is strangely a lot of crossover of Ford and BMW followers I find.

[@pcv3200]

Thank u to answer my question! Cheers from Catalonia! Im a mk3 focus st250 owner, thats why i wish what the RS makes u feel like. I 've never drove one.

[@MarkCup70]

No problem 👍

[@CaravanningwiththeCoxs]

I really enjoyed this Mark. Facts, figures, data! All the things I love about this channel. Having owned an RS I agree with you in every single way and I was very close to changing to an M140i. Who knows what I will change it to in the summer... can I ask, what fuel recording app do you use and where do you get your track day insurance from? Looking at taking my RS on track. Hope your well, Oliver.

[@MarkCup70]

I use the Android app "FuelLog" to record the fill-ups, but then that all gets dumped into Excel where most of the data manipulation and presentation happens. Trackday insurance? Moris or insuremytrackday are a couple I've used in the past.

[@micklawrence2630]

Great vid Mark in these strange times ..... quick question, have you driven the Focus Mk4 ST yet and if so what are your thoughts? 👍🏼

[@df9834]

Mark just watched a video of you and your friend driving your focus Rs! I know you love your bmw. But you seem to have a bigger smile in your Rs! 👍

[@Marcj140286]

Another great upload m8,I recently test drove the fk2 type r as I found it's the perfect combination,brilliant handling and just enough power for our roads,have you ever been in one

[@MarkCup70]

The fk2 doesn't interest me, the fk8 though, now there's something I'd like to have a proper drive of...

[@DjNikGnashers]

Hey Mark, great video thank you. I noticed on your infotainment, you had 'old skool ravers', never had you down as an oldskool head :-)) Me too, and I still DJ every week ! I agree with your criteria and scoring. The M140i is a brilliant all rounder, but just lacks a little bit of chassis balance when you try and drive it at 10/10th's.... I chose the 8 speed ZF option, having driven manual BMW's for years, and they are all a bit 'mechanical' as you say. The ZF 8 speed is as brilliant as the B58 engine is. When driving in comfort mode, it changes at 2ooo revs or less, and does so almost without you even feeling the change. It is absolutely amazing. Then shove it in sport gearbox mode, and there is no point in using the manual shift paddles, because it shifts in miliseconds, and does so at the exact correct point in the rev range, you simply can't 'beat' it by doing it manually. I have just had a map put on mine. It drives just like the original map, ie power delivery is so smooth, it's just now I have 410bhp to play with (and 576nm torque), instead of 336bhp (which is what it made on the dyno before the map, and the place I took it had a very accurate dyno, not exaggerated like a lot of places). So, the only thing left to improve the car, is to fit a limited slip diff, and maybe a brake upgrade. With those things, I think it can still be a comfortable and smooth cruiser, but when in 'beast mode', it will be an RS beater, and in fact, an Audi RS3 / Mercedes A45 beater too. The ultimate hatch in my opinion.

[@MarkCup70]

Out of curiosity Nik, what map did you go for? I'm told MHD or BM3 are both good options, but then I'm also drawn to Litchfield.

[@DjNikGnashers]

@@MarkCup70 I had a custom map done by AReeve Performance in Kings Lynn. His dyno reads very accurately, not like a lot of exaggerated dyno's. It made 336bhp stock on his dyno (which would probably be 350-360 on many other dyno's), and after the map made 410bhp & 576nm torque (maybe 440-450 on other dyno's). Here's the graph Mark - i.imgur.com/oJbAYDH.jpg?1 Nice smooth curve, very much like the original map. The map also updated the sport display too, so it reads up to 480bhp / 640nm torque, and calmed down the cold start a bit, which annoys neighbours when I leave for work !!

[@watfordfc0]

Great review, Spot on 👍

[@craiga3277]

Chris Hobbs completely agree.

[@MarkCup70]

Thanks chaps 👍😀

[@Matthew-jn7ss]

Have you thought about having the resonators removed from the standard exhaust system? I would highly recommend you do so!

[@kickdoc2427]

Great comparison Mark. I went from a Mk3 RS to an M240i convertible. I never tracked either but your other comments I agree with. I miss being able to stomp on the gas in the RS coming out of a roundabout and it hurling you down the road, can’t do that in the M240i, but the BMW requires more skill IMHO and balancing it right in a corner is great, I enjoy that . But the BMW engine is way better. In my experience the BMW is much faster in all conditioners except off the line (cos of the RS AWD of course). As soon as you are moving the BMW is way quicker. I also don’t miss the way the RS wanted to pull me all over the road on full throttle 3rd gear overtakes, could get quite scary, the BMW just goes nice and straight. Take care.

[@MarkCup70]

Agreed on ALL points, I could have written that LOL

[@FraggerFilms]

Hi Mark, great video - I think the LCI 2 cars (mine and yours being the regular LCI) which I believe started on a 67/18 reg, do have coolant and possibly oil temperature as a digital display. I had a couple of courtesy 118i's which had the slighly newer interior and they had this.

[@MarkCup70]

Correct, they do, I unfortunately couldn't find an LCI2, in the right spec, and at the right time. C'est la vie!

[@FraggerFilms]

MarkCup70 In fact, I think it was sometime during the 18 plate as I bought my LCI in April 2018 and was a cracking deal so might have been trying to shift stock prior to the LCI 2 ones.

[@waynewilliams5434]

Good review . When u sold the RS I didn't watch another video sorry. You are certainly in a position to compare the 2 cars by the way . Ultimately it comes down to how the person feels in the car. The RS makes me feel kind of special always puts a smile on my face. So cant see me selling anytime soon. Interesting what the value of both cars are now?? Depreciation

[@MarkCup70]

Thanks Wayne! Value wise, I see the two cars as very, very similar. More so since BMW killed off the RWD and manual six cylinder platform in this size of car.

[@madduck09]

Great vid. Went out to check to make sure. You can get at least water temp on the dash of the m140. It's one of the options to cycle through. I know you can edit what options you see too so maybe it's one that's not ticked?

[@MarkCup70]

The LCI2 does, mine doesn't. Shame. But much as a I may say otherwise, it's no real disaster really.

[@remcosol]

Nice video ! I agree , I think an m2 is more of a competitor. I traded in my mk3 rs for an m2 . They are closer than most will appreciate. Although the m2 is a bit more serious . I get the reason why you bought the m140i! I got rid of the rs because of the engine issues and the very very harsh ride . It’s a great car but ford released it too quick . Needed to do more development on it . Too many issues ( not just the engine ). Keep up the good work !

[@MarkCup70]

Ssssshhhhh, careful, don't say that, they'll come after you too! 😂😉

[@remcosol]

@@MarkCup70 :)

[@Aa-er2ws]

Hi mark How come you have no interest in modifications like remap nicer sounding exhaust etc?

[@leelifeson9150]

Having purchased the M140 I outright ! do you not worry about the depreciation?

[@Aaaron91]

I’m sure if you go through the Menu in the bmw there is actually an oil temp you can see. Although I believe it’s quite hidden

[@baldassassin2902]

Surprised u didn't mention the rear wheel drive Mark, that shove u feel coming out of a corner and drifting of course. Agree the comfort on tap in the m140 wins me over too

[@spolo123]

Such a pity Mark you can't get your hands on the M140i xDrive. It's still too soft from the suspensions but it has that rear bias and the efficiency of the RS. And the straight six mightyness.

[@Trophy_R]

Another great video mark, hopefully meet up on a track day soon, you can take my R26.R round with pleasure.

[@MarkCup70]

Thanks Steve, a very generous offer. One I'd happily take you up on, not many cars come more focused than the R26.R!

[@Trophy_R]

MarkCup70 you’ll be more than welcome

[@DasArab]

Couple of things i've noticed over your videos. The BMW eats tyres yet returns a much better MPG. And just my opinion, but I think the 5 door 140 is a nicer looking car. Do you think a 5 door version might have just swung it?

[@alexjennison9960]

Sure my m140 has oil temp? Should be on the info on the dials. Unless it was introduced with the later dash

[@tracktimevideos5164]

FYI you are comparing weights incorrectly. The apparent 1550kgs that the RS weighs includes full fluids and an 80kg driver. You have then compared that to an M140i dry of fluids and with no driver, with fluids and a driver it is 1538kgs (for a manual car) and another 40kgs for an auto. Anyway, really good video, I disagree on some points but most things are subjective anyway. 👍

[@bensadler5426]

Track Time Videos 1599 kerbweight assuming driver at 75 kg, full fluid levels and 90% fuel levels, subject to manufacturing tolerances and options.

[@tracktimevideos5164]

@@bensadler5426 depends what sources you read but yes there or there abouts and certainly not 150kgs lighter than the Focus.

[@MarkCup70]

@@tracktimevideos5164 I stand corrected! I had 1,450 kgs in my head for the 140 and close to ,1600 kgs for the RS. All the above makes sense.

[@tracktimevideos5164]

@@MarkCup70 👍

[@jamesreilly8455]

Great video Mark, thanks. I've had my manual m140 for a year now and love it. Pretty much as you've described it. I came from a mk3 focus st and missed the gear shift in that too. I got the m performance shifter and it makes a noticeable difference to the feel in the BMW. Would you consider the original M2 next?

[@MarkCup70]

Honestly, probably not. All things considered, it's a lot more dollar for not a lot more car. As for the shift, I hear this all the time but can't bring myself to drop the cash on one until I've tried it for myself. You're nowhere near West Sussex I take it...?

[@jamesreilly8455]

@@MarkCup70 unfortunately not Mark, I'm north of the boarder. It's expensive for what it is I suppose but it is a quality bit of kit, well made. I bought it blind but definitely no regrets. I also got the steering wheel retrimmed in Alcantara from Royal steering wheels, you've no doubt seen their work, they both go well together. This would improve the steering wheel no end, I remember not liking the feel of the original one either, always a sticky feeling from it. My Alcantara one was starting to look a bit tired after only a year but an easy clean with warm soapy water has made it good as new. The perforated leather they do looks excellent too, might be more to your taste? I fitted it myself with the swap option they do, quite easy on the manual with no paddles to worry about. I hear you on the M2, straight line no difference from what I've seen, just more of an assault on the senses, would that be worth the extra?? All the best 👍

[@toblerone0104]

@MarkCup70 I’ve got the M performance shifter on mine and it’s one of the best upgrades in my opinion! It’s about half the weight of the stock knob and a lot shorter, felt like you could shift a lot faster as a result. You can also feel more of the linkage too in a weird way. Only bad thing is the Alcantara trim on the knob itself, you’ll have to clean it regularly to keep it looking good!

[@OCOWGTR27]

Do you have adaptive dampers Mark? Cars in Australia came with just about everything standard (HK sound, Adaptive dampers, professional nav, electric memory seats etc etc). LCI2 also addresses your gauge issue - there's an oil temp gauge accessible (i've used it on a skidpan day). I think you can code it on your LCI1 model as well. BMW controls temps very well FYI. Brakes pads do help, and if you get a BM3 tune, you can get the brakes modified so they feel much better via electronics. A simple res delete and centre muffler delete will give you burbles and pops/bangs. 200 quid, but still perfect on a highway cruise. Now you have a LSD, BM3 tune and really wake them up......

[@MarkCup70]

I do have adaptive dampers, having had them I'd NEVER go passive, they give very good contrasting alternatives. As for tune, I always said never. But then, now I'm out of warranty, never say never...

[@andrewmoorhouse687]

Interesting video. I have a M140i and I think your conclusions are very fair. It’s such a great all round package. If you want the ultimate handling car, this may not be it. If you want the most practical this may not be it. But overall, it’s just ace. I’ve driven a M2 and that’s much more hardcore. I personally couldn’t live with one for that reason. Great for a blast, not so great the other 95% of the time. The ride was just too hard. Standouts on the 140 are undoubtably engine and gearbox (if have the ZF 8 speed auto). For any viewers thinking of getting a M140i or 240i, BMW fitted a revised dash and dials, from around mid 2017 on, which includes an oil temp gauge. It’s accessible via the computer on the end of the wiper stalk and displays between the two main dials. I use it quite a lot, as a guide to when it’s fully warmed up and so OK to use the car’s performance without putting undue stress and wear on the car. I intend keeping it a long time and so try and look after it.

[@MarkCup70]

I would have loved to have grabbed a LCI2 model with the temperature information fix, but when this one came up, with the almost perfect combination of boxes ticked, local to me as well, and just when I was looking for a quick exit from RS ownership, I just had to have it.

[@jordanschofield464]

Awesome vid a song always Mark! I'm currently driving a mk7 fiesta ST200 and would like to follow the natural path of progression to a mk3 RS at some point in the future. I've heard from people who have made the jump that while the RS is a faster car the ST was still more fun to drive. Id like to hear your opinion please.

[@MarkCup70]

If you've not seen it Jordan look back at the video I made with my buddy and his Fiesta ST...I had my RS at the time and we both took turns driving each other's cars. Honestly, I'd take the keys to the ST for a blast and not feel short changed in any way! I've told him when he gets rid of it (it only has 22k miles on it) I'm buying it!

[@jordanschofield464]

@@MarkCup70 Thanks Mark! Will definitely give the vid a watch!

[@SamAlexander14786]

The interior of the M140i is beautiful, utterly slays the Focus RS. But.... I'm a Ford fan boy I would love to own the 2017 RS seeing as we're not getting a new model. However I would love to try the m140i side by side.

[@TT-jr2zw]

SamAlexander14786 Unfortuanatly there is unlikely to be any more performance Fords. No more of the RS badge models. I Focus ST is far too expensive so I think they are hoping RS owners will go for it. I don’t classify the MK8 ST as an upgrade. Downgraded engine with a new interior. Nearly 26k fully specced. Ridiculous. You can get a low mileage MK3 RS for that.

[@keithw4920]

I am surprised you rated the M140i sport setting on the adaptive suspension as a 4 only! I feel that my previous B8 Audi S4 on its hardest setting, was still a more comfy ride than the M140i on comfort. Sport on the M140i is unusable for me. Only time I use it is when car is totally loaded with passengers.

[@robertwest3524]

Have you tryed a Type R, I didn't like it's looks and thats why I chose the RS but driving wise it's quite good

[@MarkCup70]

My best friend has just bought an FK8, hoping to get a drive of it soon!

[@kevinalexander3514]

Been watching your videos since you had the red fiesta, you can compare them two cars because you experienced both. I would probably bought a rs if it wasnt for your videos. Now I'll never buy another ford.(fiesta owner) I like hearing your opinion ya just gotta ignore negatives comments.

[@ianwalton5156]

A bit disingenuous with the depreciation Mark, your Focus RS was bought new so it's hard to compare plus your old car wouldn't have depreciated noticeably but you can get a BMW 140i similar to yours for £17 to £18k.

[@hairycornflake8580]

What is the bracket for your go pro? The one attached to your driver's seat. Great vid btw. Love your data analysis.

[@PaulL42654]

It's in the description! It's the hague headrest mount.

[@MarkCup70]

As said by @PaulL it is the Hague headrest mount, link in the video description.

[@sheilamorrison1954]

How did you find shoulder wear on front tyres? Lack of camber seems to be cured by M3/4 LCAs otherwise its annoying?

[@MarkCup70]

The tyre shoulders for me on this thing haven't given me any problem at all so far.

[@boomerang2]

Hi Mark, do you have an ownership period cutoff in mind for the Beemer, now or even when you first acquired it ( and has that period changed in your mind ). Or no particular predetermined period in mind, just for as long as you are enjoying living with it and finances/priorities dictate.. Edit: compare the 140 ownership to the FiestaST :D

[@MarkCup70]

There's no date in mind, and no finances dictate anything as there's nothing owing on the 140 so it's mine to keep for as long as I wish. I can see it being around for a long time. As for the ST, I might be able to sort something like I did with my mate Sean when I had the RS. Hmmm, now there's a thought...

[@desmondso7895]

I tested drive both and end up buying the RS at the end!

[@stephengolds9679]

Interesting stuff, I'm coming to the end of my 2 years with the RS (August) and not sure what to do, I'd love to keep it, but what to replace it with that gives you as much for the money, looking at a First ST performance edition, odd name as there is no more performance compared to a normal ST, oh well got until August.

[@MarkCup70]

Is that the orange one that comes with adjustable coilovers and a proper mechanical diff? I'd happily have one!

[@stephengolds9679]

@@MarkCup70 yes, that's the one.

[@toftebyelektronikvhenrikto2930]

I still have my Focus RS. I feel exactly the same for my car. It is very difficult to live with but impossible to live without. High. One small RS thing is that oil pressure is fake and calculated only!

[@robinhosleftfoot]

Is there no oil/temp info in the idrive menus somewhere?

[@cjcronin1000]

Robinho's Left Foot nope, they literally didn’t bother to include them 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@Taylor40667]

Would love to see your review the new m135i 🥴 2 litre 4 cylinder No RWD

[@MarkCup70]

I really would like to have a proper lengthy drive of one for a day or two or three...but I think it'll struggle to match up to either of the cars I compare in this video. It doesn't have the engine and natural RWD feel of the 140, nor does it have the focus and RWD bias (from the GKN Twinster rear drive unit) of the RS. Both are a tough act to follow!

[@laurahunt5146]

I own a mk3 RS and at normal speed it drives just like my diesel focus

[@alasdairboyd7299]

If you could justify/ afford / had space to store it, would you buy another RS to keep purely as a track toy?

[@MarkCup70]

To this question, quite simply, 100% yes!

[@briankielberg2782]

Hi there. Have you looked into P3 gauges. With these young can see different temperatures and timings etc. www.motechperformance.net/p3.php. They might have a gauge that fits your car and the are OEM fit

[@THEWIZZYGAMER]

I’ve just sold my Magnetic Grey RS, and buying a 1M Coupe! Defo going to be worth it, you think?

[@SH7SH7SH7]

Grip And Go 1M is a great drivers car. Looks nuts too with the wide arches 👍🏽 enjoy!

[@unrealeck]

1M is a legend. Of course it's worth it.

[@TeamZSsx]

You say it's fun to look back over the last 3 years but what if you went way back and chose a car you have owned in the past and put it against the BMW in a pound for pound fight. What car would you choose?

[@MarkCup70]

That's not too hard a question to answer...as an out and out driver's car, I think it would have to be my Clio 172 Cup.

[@JonathanTyas]

Have to remember the humble origin of these cars, hence no temperature gauge. I have a M2 comp and again no temperature gauge on that either! It does have a oil temperature lcd scale though. It is worth remembering that the temperature gauges on all modern cars are no better than a light as they go to normal temperature at about 65C and stay there till they get to about 105C. Not Like the old days where if you went up a hill fast the gauge would climb a bit. I went from a FRS Edition and much prefer the handling of the M2, yes it can be lethal and you have to behave in the wet. The Focus however has unpredictable horrific torque steer. On a steep fast bumpy uphill that I know, with a 200 foot drop on the left, you really couldn’t use the power for fear of it pitching you off the road.

[@sheilamorrison1954]

Coolant gets hotter quickly as the thermostat controls it which means the oil wont be operating temp when it says its normal temp. Oil temp guages are there for the exact reason, you see it warm up properly so know when its actually at temp. They dont just go to normal from nothing, it has an actual temp sensor in the pan. No idea what you are talking about with the oil temp guage being an effective light which goes to middle. It doesnt.

[@JonathanTyas]

Sheila Morrison I’m taking about water temperature gauges, they do not show an actual reading on any car I know. FWIW the focus RS did not have an oil temperature sender in the pan it was a calculated temperature, so again maybe close to useless. I have no idea if the BMW has a sender in the oil pan or again calculated, even though there is no water temperature gauge, it will still have a sender for the ECU to know water temp. Especially as a lot of cars are moving to electrically operates thermostats.

[@MarkCup70]

@@JonathanTyas I'd not really thought of that...it goes back to it being 'just a 116d' again I guess. The instrument binnacle is just too small to accomodate the necessary dials...I know on Jeff's M4 he has a couple of extra ones in there showing temps.

[@lucasvonheiz1310]

Bloody hell yes, don't know What's going on with bmw and "no engine temperature at all". Have to buy à 2nd smartphone and torque on it for my 130i

[@biddiblack1]

I like the boring mark ! Keep the vids flowing.

[@MarkCup70]

😂😂😂 will do Johny!

[@jasonevans1459]

What a great comparison, I have a fairly long list of cars I want to buy next year and these 2 are at the top. I'm still undecided so this was no help at all 😂.

[@MarkCup70]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@jasonevans1459]

@@MarkCup70 Hard to get past the sound of the 6 pot though lol

[@MarkCup70]

More on that lump in my next video...

[@forza223bowe5]

BMW and Ford make the best driving cars, nobody else comes close

[@tedsahlen2901]

Forza223 Bowe nah. The type r is a beast on the track. For the money its a very good drivers car. I own a m135i with stage 1 and its a blast in the straight but i think the type r is a beast in the corner. And the price of the Honda is good.

[@MajorSarcasm]

Great video, Mark. Having owned 2 Mk3 Focus RS's and several 3 litre BMWs (2x 135i Coupes and an M135i), I cannot disagree with anything you've said. We are in accord.

[@bigjammz5701]

Which was better the 135i coupe or m135i in terms of reliability, handling, gearbox? Thinking if buying either 335i 135i or M135i but I cannot decide.

[@MajorSarcasm]

@@bigjammz5701 The M135i was a ZF 8-speed auto (which I couldn't get on with). Both my 135i coupes were manual, so not much comparison. Handling, the M135i was a little better but not streets ahead. Reliability? None of them have broken!

[@bigjammz5701]

@@MajorSarcasm weird the ZF is meant to be a great gear box. The 135i coupe had the N54 engine whereas the m135i has n55 engine just wondered if any had any issues but that's good to know. Thanks for the input

[@26Tackle.reviews]

whots your next car going to be? can only do so much with 1 car"

[@MarkCup70]

Does there have to be a next car if the one I have is such a good all-rounder? I feel a video coming on...

[@26Tackle.reviews]

well id like to see your track days in a new car and day to day stuff! Don't you get board with a car after few years? i love bmw also but do like AWD better! that would be good to see a video mark

[@roystubbs251]

Hi mark great video just wanted to say car looks wise the ford looks so much better I really don’t like the look of the bmw it reminds me of a tortoise and that would stop me owning one I am lucky enough to have an M2 I always look back at it when I car it and that RS has real presence

[@MarkCup70]

Agreed. Dem arches, yum.

[@laurahunt5146]

The RS has gone up in value a hell of a lot I bet you regret selling

[@MarkCup70]

Not at all. A car bought new, needing a new engine and then a head gasket replacement on that replacement engine within 18k miles is a bitter pill to have to swallow. I'm very happy where I am right now.

[@chriss3594]

I had a 2017 Focus RS. The exhaust valve would freeze in winter thus shutting out sport mode. Dealer suggested changing to aftermarket exhaust. So i got rid of the Focus and never regret a thing.The ride quality was terrible in the Focus. I know have a Golf R and love it.

[@Taylor40667]

chris s there was an update in late 17 to fix the sticking exhaust once updated it never happens

[@step0601]

The ride quality of my RS was one of the reasons why I sold it and unfortunately it's also the reason why I'm chopping in my M140i. Your experience with your 140 seems very different to mine, we both have the adaptive dampers. I just find it too busy and uncontrolled, especially when pushing on. I never feel confidant in it. Its a shame because the engine is sublime. I'd say it gives the car an almost exotic feel. I wonder if RS prices will stabilize now Ford have cancelled the MK4 RS?

[@MarkCup70]

I find RS prices a very funny and unpredictable thing, mostly driven by a very small niche market of owners. Of more interest to me is how the 140 market will hold (or not) now that BMW have killed off what they always maintained was the ULTIMATE drivers' car configuration...

[@vollcare4076]

Totally agree with the OEM M140 suspension: I have/had the non adaptive and it was horrible bouncy & harsh. Now Switched to KW Street Comfort and the car is fine for all use: daily as well as fast rides on the weekends

[@garymorris801]

Really good mark I had 2 focus rs loved both but the ownership of the rs was painful my m2 far superior use a good guy

[@martinlee7706]

In tune wise stage 1 and stage 2 much more figure than the RS and also 6cylinders Vs 4cylins.....German quality ...I know ford got too many issue....and cheaper to buy in used cars market..... Roundabout M4 cant match .....and this car is a silent killer as it not noticeable.....

[@Zadster]

If I have this right; Focus RS: Best mate on a mad long weekend away somewhere. M140i: Sexy girl you want to marry and spend the rest of your life with. Any thoughts on what next? I appreciate that using the above metaphor, this may technically mean divorce, and who knows what the economy is going to do now, but ignore that.

[@grassyknoll9647]

Instead of flicking between your cams showing your self, instead show the cars !

[@tonyreno3025]

Get a soap box stand on it and say your peace 😂

[@df9834]

Mark another great video, love it pal. Very honest, And true, But you’re comparing a M Bmw against basically a Ford Focus 😂 There isn’t really any comparison is there? Lol the Bmw is far superior quality. But the focus is nearly a 170 mph car. You were just unlucky with your new focus

[@MarkCup70]

I was unlucky with my Focus RS, 100% agreed. But am I comparing a true ///M car to it? I don't think so...

[@JayJay-loz]

Not being funny D F, but have you been smoking crack mate? The m140i is not a real M car as is the m340i not a M car! And the Ford is a performance car RS is a brand sadly they are not making anymore.

[@anthonylocking907]

bmw 140i all day cheaper and faster