2006 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Oldsmobile Alero. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Oldsmobile Alero would be higher. At 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 347 kg more than 2006 Ford Focus. 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, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero (271 Nm) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Focus. (178 Nm). This means 1997 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Focus. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2006 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Focus | 1997 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Focus | Alero |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1213 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
