2004 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,712 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 19 kg more than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Ford Focus (166 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Ford | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Focus | 146 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2550 mm |
