2008 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Holden GTS
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden GTS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden GTS would be higher. At 4,141 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Holden GTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1978 Holden GTS. (158 HP @ 4550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden GTS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Holden GTS weights approximately 125 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus.
Because 1978 Holden GTS 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 1978 Holden GTS. 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, 1978 Holden GTS (327 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (196 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1978 Holden GTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1978 Holden GTS | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Focus | GTS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 4141 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 327 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2830 mm |
