1998 Ford Focus vs. 2005 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2005 Toyota MR2 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 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota MR2 (150 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 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 179 kg more than 2005 Toyota MR2.
Because 2005 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 2005 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, 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 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Focus | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 8 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 | 1244 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
