2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 vs. 1998 Ford Focus
To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 366 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 167 kg more than 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 Shelby GT 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Shelby GT 500 (652 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 482 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | 1998 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Shelby GT 500 | Focus |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5409 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 652 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
