2009 Ford Focus vs. 1981 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1981 Toyota Corolla. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1981 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 567 kg more than 1981 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Toyota Corolla 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 1981 Toyota Corolla. 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 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Toyota Corolla. (105 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Toyota Corolla. 1981 Toyota Corolla has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Toyota Corolla will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Focus | 1981 Toyota Corolla | |
Make | Ford | Toyota |
Model | Focus | Corolla |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1290 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 99 HP | 68 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 105 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 885 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4110 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |