1987 Ford Sierra vs. 2012 Ford Focus

To start off, 2012 Ford Focus is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Focus (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1987 Ford Sierra. (66 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Focus weights approximately 167 kg more than 1987 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1987 Ford Sierra 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 1987 Ford Sierra. 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, 2012 Ford Focus (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Sierra. (142 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Sierra. 2012 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Sierra has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Sierra 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:

1987 Ford Sierra 2012 Ford Focus
Make Ford Ford
Model Sierra Focus
Year Released 1987 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2303 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 66 HP 160 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 142 Nm 198 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4450 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed automated manual
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1170 kg 1337 kg