2003 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Saturn SC
To start off, 2003 Ford Focus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SC would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Saturn SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Saturn SC (101 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 Ford Focus. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Saturn SC should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Focus weights approximately 145 kg more than 1996 Saturn SC.
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, 1996 Saturn SC (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Focus. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Saturn SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Focus | 1996 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Focus | SC |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1387 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2610 mm |
