1970 Ford 17 vs. 2011 Ford Focus
To start off, 2011 Ford Focus is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Ford 17. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Ford 17 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Focus (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1970 Ford 17. (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1970 Ford 17. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Focus weights approximately 115 kg more than 1970 Ford 17. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Ford 17 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 1970 Ford 17. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Ford Focus (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Ford 17. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Ford 17.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Ford 17 | 2011 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | 17 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4445 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1722 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1488 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2614 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 51 L |
