1978 Holden GTS vs. 2012 Ford Focus

To start off, 2012 Ford Focus is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden GTS would be higher. At 4,141 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Holden GTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Focus (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1978 Holden GTS. (158 HP @ 4550 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden GTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Holden GTS weights approximately 138 kg more than 2012 Ford Focus.

Because 1978 Holden GTS 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 1978 Holden GTS. 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, 1978 Holden GTS (327 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Focus. (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM). This means 1978 Holden GTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Focus. 2012 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1978 Holden GTS has manual transmission. 1978 Holden GTS 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:

1978 Holden GTS 2012 Ford Focus
Make Holden Ford
Model GTS Focus
Year Released 1978 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4141 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 158 HP 160 HP
Engine RPM 4550 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 327 Nm 198 Nm
Torque RPM 2600 RPM 4450 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automated manual
Vehicle Weight 1475 kg 1337 kg


 

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