1998 Ford Focus vs. 1971 Lincoln Continental

To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lincoln Continental. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lincoln Continental would be higher. At 7,536 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lincoln Continental (209 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 1136 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Lincoln Continental 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 1971 Lincoln Continental. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1971 Lincoln Continental (465 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Ford Focus 1971 Lincoln Continental
Make Ford Lincoln
Model Focus Continental
Year Released 1998 1971
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1388 cc 7536 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 128 HP 209 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 465 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2800 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1074 kg 2210 kg
Vehicle Length 4160 mm 5500 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 2030 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2980 mm