2008 Ford Focus vs. 1970 Pontiac GTO

To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Pontiac GTO. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Pontiac GTO would be higher. At 6,546 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Pontiac GTO is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Pontiac GTO (256 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Pontiac GTO should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Pontiac GTO weights approximately 435 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 Pontiac GTO 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 1970 Pontiac GTO. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1970 Pontiac GTO (461 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1970 Pontiac GTO will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Ford Focus 1970 Pontiac GTO
Make Ford Pontiac
Model Focus GTO
Year Released 2008 1970
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1796 cc 6546 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 113 HP 256 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 160 Nm 461 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80.6 mm 104.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 95.3 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.3:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1195 kg 1630 kg
Vehicle Length 4300 mm 5160 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1950 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2850 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 67 L