1998 Ford Focus vs. 2008 Honda Civic
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic is newer by 10 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Civic (139 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Honda Civic weights approximately 134 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. 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, 2008 Honda Civic (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2008 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Focus | Civic |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1799 cc |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
