1971 Fiat 124 vs. 2008 Ford Focus

To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Fiat 124 weights approximately 12 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus.

Because 1971 Fiat 124 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 1971 Fiat 124. 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, 2008 Ford Focus (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124. 2008 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1971 Fiat 124 has manual transmission. 1971 Fiat 124 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Fiat 124 2008 Ford Focus
Make Fiat Ford
Model 124 Focus
Year Released 1971 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1197 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 0 HP
Torque 89 Nm 185 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 73 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 71.5 mm 83.1 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.8:1 10.8:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Top Speed 140 km/hour 197 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 912 kg 900 kg
Vehicle Length 4050 mm 4490 mm
Vehicle Width 1630 mm 2000 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2500 mm 2650 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 38 L 55 L