1975 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2004 Ford Focus

To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1975 Chrysler Valiant. (91 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1975 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 436 kg more than 1975 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1975 Chrysler Valiant 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 1975 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Chrysler Valiant. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Chrysler Valiant. 2004 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1975 Chrysler Valiant has manual transmission. 1975 Chrysler Valiant will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1975 Chrysler Valiant 2004 Ford Focus
Make Chrysler Ford
Model Valiant Focus
Year Released 1975 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1438 cc 1988 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 91 HP 128 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 123 Nm 178 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 830 kg 1266 kg
Vehicle Length 3970 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1540 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1540 mm
Wheelbase Size 2350 mm 2630 mm