2005 Ford Focus vs. 1972 Rover 3.5
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Rover 3.5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Rover 3.5 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Focus (153 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1972 Rover 3.5. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1972 Rover 3.5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2005 Ford Focus.
Because 1972 Rover 3.5 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 1972 Rover 3.5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1972 Rover 3.5 (276 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (172 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1972 Rover 3.5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Focus | 1972 Rover 3.5 | |
| Make | Ford | Rover |
| Model | Focus | 3.5 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 276 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2820 mm |
