2008 Ford Focus vs. 2001 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Toyota MR2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Toyota MR2 (140 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 322 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Toyota MR2 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 2001 Toyota MR2. 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 (200 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Toyota MR2. (170 Nm). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Toyota MR2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 2001 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Focus | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1288 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
