2009 Chrysler 300 vs. 1998 Ford Focus

To start off, 2009 Chrysler 300 is newer by 11 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 6,059 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler 300 (425 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 294 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (131 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 681 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Chrysler 300 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 2009 Chrysler 300. 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, 2009 Chrysler 300 (570 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 396 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2009 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Chrysler 300 1998 Ford Focus
Make Chrysler Ford
Model 300 Focus
Year Released 2009 1998
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 6059 cc 1753 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 425 HP 131 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 570 Nm 174 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 103 mm 82.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90.9 mm 82 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 19.4:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1873 kg 1192 kg
Vehicle Length 5010 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 3050 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 72 L 53 L