1976 Dodge Aspen vs. 2012 Ford Focus
To start off, 2012 Ford Focus is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,685 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Dodge Aspen is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Focus (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1976 Dodge Aspen. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1976 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Dodge Aspen weights approximately 148 kg more than 2012 Ford Focus.
Because 1976 Dodge Aspen 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 Dodge Aspen. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1976 Dodge Aspen (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Focus. (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM). This means 1976 Dodge Aspen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Focus. 2012 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1976 Dodge Aspen has manual transmission. 1976 Dodge Aspen will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Dodge Aspen | 2012 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Aspen | Focus |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3685 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4450 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1337 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1824 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2649 mm |
