2009 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Holden Commodore

To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 4,987 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Holden Commodore (225 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (99 HP @ 3850 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Holden Commodore weights approximately 260 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1997 Holden Commodore 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 1997 Holden Commodore. 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, 1997 Holden Commodore (395 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Ford Focus 1997 Holden Commodore
Make Ford Holden
Model Focus Commodore
Year Released 2009 1997
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1753 cc 4987 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 99 HP 225 HP
Engine RPM 3850 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 395 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1290 kg 1550 kg
Vehicle Length 4390 mm 5050 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1560 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2950 mm