2002 Ford Focus vs. 1988 TVR S2
To start off, 2002 Ford Focus is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 TVR S2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 TVR S2 would be higher. At 2,933 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 TVR S2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 TVR S2 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2002 Ford Focus. (131 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 TVR S2 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Focus weights approximately 242 kg more than 1988 TVR S2.
Because 1988 TVR S2 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 1988 TVR S2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1988 TVR S2 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1988 TVR S2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Focus | 1988 TVR S2 | |
| Make | Ford | TVR |
| Model | Focus | S2 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1232 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2290 mm |
