2004 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Lada 1600
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lada 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lada 1600 would be higher. At 1,758 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1978 Lada 1600. (78 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Lada 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 217 kg more than 1978 Lada 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Lada 1600 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 1978 Lada 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Ford Focus (200 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lada 1600. (122 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lada 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1978 Lada 1600 | |
| Make | Ford | Lada |
| Model | Focus | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1758 cc | 1568 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 140 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 39 L |
