1989 Ford Sierra vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1989 Ford Sierra. (74 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 377 kg more than 1989 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Ford Sierra. 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 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Sierra. (123 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Sierra. 2004 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Sierra has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Sierra 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:
| 1989 Ford Sierra | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Sierra | Focus |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
