1997 Chevrolet Express 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 Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (217 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1364 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 Express 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 Express. 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 Express (379 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2009 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Express | Focus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4997 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 379 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2364 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2650 mm |
