1976 Chrysler Valiant vs. 2006 Ford Focus
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Chrysler Valiant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Chrysler Valiant would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Focus (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. (91 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Focus weights approximately 345 kg more than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Chrysler Valiant. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Ford Focus (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. (123 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Chrysler Valiant. 2006 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1976 Chrysler Valiant has manual transmission. 1976 Chrysler Valiant will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Chrysler Valiant | 2006 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | Valiant | Focus |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1439 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2620 mm |
