1980 Pontiac 1000 vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Pontiac 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Pontiac 1000 would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac 1000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1980 Pontiac 1000. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1980 Pontiac 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 215 kg more than 1980 Pontiac 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Pontiac 1000 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 1980 Pontiac 1000. 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 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Pontiac 1000. (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Pontiac 1000. 2004 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1980 Pontiac 1000 has manual transmission. 1980 Pontiac 1000 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:
| 1980 Pontiac 1000 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Pontiac | Ford |
| Model | 1000 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2400 mm | 2620 mm |
