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Ford Focus Sedan

1997 messages,  Last post on Aug 02, 2009 at 5:57 PM

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What is this discussion about? Ford Focus, Sedan


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#1927 of 1997
Cortina by waynebengston
Jul 15, 2007 (4:28 am)
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"I really think Ford should quickly create the rebirth of the Cortina compact RWD sedan by using the RX-8 platform w/ 2.3 4-cyl."
 
That's actually a great idea, and a car I'd buy in a heartbeat.
 
Here is what I like most about RWD;
1. Zero torque steer
2. Ability to add power in corner without reducing traction in front.
3. Ability to enter 4-wheel drift(not the lurid power slide people call drifting) with power on, rather than braking.
4. Better weight transfer on acceleration.
 
I know that FWD and RWD can both be driven quickly, and I know how to drive both quickly, but I get more satisfaction out of driving a RWD car quickly.
#1928 of 1997
Re: Cortina [waynebengston] by creakid1
Jul 15, 2007 (6:34 am)
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Replying to: waynebengston (Jul 15, 2007 4:28 am)

Since only non-FWD (RWD & AWD) platforms can allocate the weight distribution aft of the front axle w/o losing the accelerating traction especially on uphills, the light-nose base RX-8 auto I test drove, w/ just 16"s & soft-riding suspension, was still exceptionally nimble. Auto Motor und Sport TV described the RX-8 as "unbelievably comfortable ride" when comparing it to the E46 330ci.
 
The base RX-8 auto felt like a light-weight car eventhough it isn't, as I could not reach the tire-adhesion limit during the test drive. Actually, one reason I picked the Focus ST over the RX-8 was b/c the RX-8 was too good! A car is no fun if I won't be able to reach the limit on the street, despite that the RX-8 rides smoother than the Focus ST & the steering, while only electric powered, was confident-inspiring enough.
 
So such competent platform can afford to waste a little bit like increasing the engine weight/volume from a rotary to a 4-cyl for a much meatier low-end torque, plus raising the center of gravity w/ a taller roof & seat height for more room & comfort. That way, I can even reach the limit on street driving.
 
In the old days, people think that only the cramped Scirocco can handle, but the taller-roof Rabbit GTI does pretty much the same.
#1929 of 1997
RX-8 by waynebengston
Jul 15, 2007 (7:43 am)
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I gave serious consideration to the RX-8, but simply could not get past the fuel economy.
 
I had no problems pushing it to its limits, and it really reminded me of the NC Miata, which makes sense. I know that the chassis would do fine under a traditional sedan. It would certainly give up some sharpness, but it would still be a cut above anything in its class.
#1930 of 1997
Re: RX-8 [waynebengston] by creakid1
Jul 15, 2007 (8:24 am)
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Replying to: waynebengston (Jul 15, 2007 7:43 am)

"I gave serious consideration to the RX-8, but simply could not get past the fuel economy."
 
Investing another $20k or more can make an RX-8 a frugal car that can also do jack-rabbit start while not making its light nose any heavier. RX-8's high CO2 level can be eliminated, too, while each dollar of energy can run almost 100 miles.
 
It's called electrification w/ lithium batteries & a silent reliable electric motor w/ max torque available from 0 rpm. You can leave your manual transmission in gear even at dead stop. So stop-&-go traffic becomes even more effortless than driving an auto!
 
There are at least a couple places in S California that do electric conversions. But making the car even heavier is inevitable. I'm looking forward to do my light-weight MkI '84 Wolfsburg Jetta coupe sometime in the future.
#1931 of 1997
07 focus by chetj
Jul 15, 2007 (8:25 am)
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i like mine a lot...a very good car and inexpensive...shoved a dryer in back amazingly enough...very roomy...that euro focus looks better though
#1932 of 1997
Re: 07 focus [chetj] by creakid1
Jul 15, 2007 (8:02 pm)
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Replying to: chetj (Jul 15, 2007 8:25 am)

"...that euro focus looks better though"
 
At least for the sedan version, I think the MkII is more bland. I prefer our '05-07 MkI ST sedan w/ Mondeo's nose:
 
creakid1, "2008 Ford Focus future vehicle" #70, 4 Jul 2007 9:10 pm
#1933 of 1997
I went to Orlando WOW it was a mpg deal!!! by dj2big
Jul 24, 2007 (7:25 pm)
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Drove from 60110 to Orlando I got a wopping 35 mpg round trip using cruise control 65 all the way there and back.
 
Now orlando in town driving I only got 25 mpg
 
Still a huge saveings over my traded in SUV!!!
 
Has anyone have inside info on the 2009 Chevy Volt 100 mpg?
#1934 of 1997
Front License Plate by bob_in_br
Jul 29, 2007 (10:51 am)
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I have a new 2007 SES. I like it:). Question though, any tricks or gotcha's on mounting the front license plate? I see the marks for the fasteners, but what kind of fastener should I use. I did not get anything with the car.
 
Thanks in advance.....
#1935 of 1997
Re: Front License Plate [bob_in_br] by bdyment
Jul 30, 2007 (3:43 am)
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Replying to: bob_in_br (Jul 29, 2007 10:51 am)

Your dealer should have provided you with a front mounting bracket and fasteners. Have them install the bracket.
#1936 of 1997
plate fastners by dj2big
Aug 01, 2007 (8:46 pm)
Reply
look in your glove box the screws should be in there.
 
I got the 2007 SES with weather package and moon roof!
 
I am going to replace the factory radio, speakers, i will also add 2 amps and 1 sub woofer.
 
I plan on keeping this car for the next 5 years so i do not mind upgrading the tunes.

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