1998 Ford Focus vs. 2005 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2005 Ford Ranger is newer by 7 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 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2005 Ford Ranger. (86 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Ranger weights approximately 157 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus.
Because 2005 Ford Ranger 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 2005 Ford Ranger. 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, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2005 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Focus | Ranger |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 21.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1118 kg | 1275 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2990 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
