2004 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (144 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 53 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Toyota MR2 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 Toyota MR2. 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 (202 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota MR2. (186 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1997 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Focus | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
