2004 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Panoz AIV
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Panoz AIV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Panoz AIV would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Panoz AIV (302 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Panoz AIV should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 67 kg more than 1997 Panoz AIV.
Because 1997 Panoz AIV 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 1997 Panoz AIV. 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, 1997 Panoz AIV (407 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (197 Nm). This means 1997 Panoz AIV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1997 Panoz AIV | |
| Make | Ford | Panoz |
| Model | Focus | AIV |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 59 L |
