1957 Ford Popular vs. 1998 Ford Focus

To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford Popular. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford Popular would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1957 Ford Popular. (26 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1957 Ford Popular. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 336 kg more than 1957 Ford Popular. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1957 Ford Popular 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 1957 Ford Popular. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Ford Focus (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Ford Popular. (63 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Ford Popular.

Compare all specifications:

1957 Ford Popular 1998 Ford Focus
Make Ford Ford
Model Popular Focus
Year Released 1957 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1172 cc 1388 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 26 HP 128 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 63 Nm 175 Nm
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 3500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 738 kg 1074 kg
Vehicle Length 3880 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1440 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1630 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2300 mm 2620 mm