2008 Ford Focus vs. 1999 Jensen SV-8
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Jensen SV-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Jensen SV-8 would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 331 kg more than 1999 Jensen SV-8.
Because 1999 Jensen SV-8 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 1999 Jensen SV-8. 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, 1999 Jensen SV-8 (439 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1999 Jensen SV-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Jensen |
| Model | Focus | SV-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 439 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1631 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
