1998 Ford Focus vs. 1980 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 1,714 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Plymouth Horizon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 115 kg more than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Ford Focus (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1980 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Ford | Plymouth |
| Model | Focus | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2530 mm |
