2003 Nissan 350Z vs. 2012 Ford Focus
To start off, 2012 Ford Focus is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan 350Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan 350Z would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan 350Z (265 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2012 Ford Focus. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 153 kg more than 2012 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Nissan 350Z 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 2003 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2003 Nissan 350Z (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Focus. (198 Nm @ 4450 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Focus. 2012 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan 350Z has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan 350Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Nissan 350Z | 2012 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Nissan | Ford |
| Model | 350Z | Focus |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 265 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4450 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1337 kg |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 47 L |
