2008 Ford Focus vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 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 37 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 27 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 45 L |
