2008 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Saturn SC
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SC would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SC. (101 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 62 kg more than 1996 Saturn SC. 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, 2008 Ford Focus (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SC. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SC. 1996 Saturn SC has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1996 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Focus | SC |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2610 mm |
