1998 Ford Focus vs. 2013 Nissan Z
To start off, 2013 Nissan Z is newer by 15 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Nissan Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan Z (327 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (135 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Z should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan Z weights approximately 444 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 2013 Nissan Z 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 2013 Nissan Z. 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, 2013 Nissan Z (366 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (162 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2013 Nissan Z | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Focus | Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 327 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11:01:00 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1573 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1845 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1326 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
