1997 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2009 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette (277 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (222 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 228 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Corvette 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 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette (437 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (320 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Corvette | 2009 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Corvette | Focus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5737 cc | 2522 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 437 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 55 L |
