2008 Ford Focus vs. 1972 Reliant Rebel
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Reliant Rebel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Reliant Rebel would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1972 Reliant Rebel. (31 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1972 Reliant Rebel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 667 kg more than 1972 Reliant Rebel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Reliant Rebel 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 Reliant Rebel. 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, 2008 Ford Focus (160 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Reliant Rebel. (53 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Reliant Rebel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1972 Reliant Rebel | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Focus | Rebel |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 53 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 60.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
