1998 Ford Focus vs. 2008 SSC Ultimate Aero
To start off, 2008 SSC Ultimate Aero 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 6,350 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 SSC Ultimate Aero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 SSC Ultimate Aero (1,183 HP @ 6950 RPM) has 1055 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 SSC Ultimate Aero should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 SSC Ultimate Aero weights approximately 132 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.
Because 2008 SSC Ultimate Aero 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 2008 SSC Ultimate Aero. 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, 2008 SSC Ultimate Aero (1,483 Nm @ 6150 RPM) has 1313 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 SSC Ultimate Aero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2008 SSC Ultimate Aero | |
| Make | Ford | SSC |
| Model | Focus | Ultimate Aero |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 6350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 1183 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6950 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 1483 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 6150 RPM |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 437 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 2.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1118 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2080 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1090 mm |
