2008 Ford Focus vs. 2003 Jensen SV-8
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Jensen SV-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Jensen SV-8 would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (212 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Jensen SV-8 weights approximately 20 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 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Jensen SV-8 (439 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus. 2008 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 2003 Jensen SV-8 has manual transmission. 2003 Jensen SV-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 2003 Jensen SV-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Jensen |
| Model | Focus | SV-8 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1987 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 439 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
