1998 Ford Focus vs. 1999 Toyota MR2
To start off, 1999 Toyota MR2 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Toyota MR2 (140 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (135 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 189 kg more than 1999 Toyota MR2.
Because 1999 Toyota MR2 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 1999 Toyota MR2. 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, 1999 Toyota MR2 (183 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (162 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1999 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1999 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Focus | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
