1998 Ford Focus vs. 2003 MG TF
To start off, 2003 MG TF is newer by 5 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 MG TF is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2003 MG TF. (114 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2003 MG TF. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 MG TF weights approximately 55 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus.
Because 2003 MG TF 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 2003 MG TF. 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, 1998 Ford Focus (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 MG TF. (145 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 MG TF.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2003 MG TF | |
| Make | Ford | MG |
| Model | Focus | TF |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
