2009 Ford Focus vs. 1977 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda RX-4 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 201 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-4.
Because 1977 Mazda RX-4 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 1977 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Ford Focus (215 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1977 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1311 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
