2008 Ford Focus vs. 1999 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1999 Saab 03-Sep. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1999 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 423 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus.
Because 2008 Ford Focus 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 2008 Ford Focus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Saab 03-Sep, 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 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1999 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1999 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Ford | Saab |
| Model | Focus | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 68 L |
