2005 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Toyota MR2 (173 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (136 HP @ 6150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Focus weights approximately 63 kg more than 1996 Toyota MR2.
Because 1996 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 1996 Toyota MR2. 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, 1996 Toyota MR2 (186 Nm) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (180 Nm). This means 1996 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Focus | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Focus | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
