IMO the MK5 XR3i handled better than the MK1 Focus. Especially when shod with 7x15" alloys. It would always lift off oversteer when pushed, but it was always correctable with a dab of power...it never snapped back (like teh typical Impreza does).

Focus felt much taller and not as stable (regardless of what the raving reviewers said in its heyday) and it was more prone to understeer and wallow when cornering. To cap it off it was taller geared and the gear ratios were more spaced apart, and despite having a bigger 2.0 engine it had identical power and torque figures to the old RQB 1.8 ....but in a heavier chassis.

 

^^^^
Yep, i've driven a couple of MK 1 Foci and felt very uncomfortable with how tall they feel.

 

had four mkI focui; two 1.8's, one 2.0ESP and now current have an ST170 hack...anyone that says there is no difference between the 2.0 and the ST clearly hasn't driven one

If you want a proper Zetec get one of the original MY98\99 variants the suspension was softened because too many people complained about the lack of compliance. Same goes for the early 2.0ESP models, the latter variants were softened.

My dad was the engineer in charge for the Focus brake project and designed the ESP system; so this is from the horse’s mouth not internet clap-trap. Enjoy your car fella

 

Dirty auld b*stards

 

We have a MK I Focus 1.6 zetec and I have to say , I love driving the car.

Engine is a little noisy , seems to get through front tyres a lot but other than that what a fab chassis.

It's not rapid but keep the revs in the correct rev band and it can out handle most other cars through twisting roads etc.

Steve

 

Nothing wrong with MK1's, had my 1.8 LX for almost 3 years now and it's the best all round car I've ever had, can get loads of stuff in the boot, comfy on long journeys, fling it round country lanes and it keeps up with most normal traffic.

It's also pretty good on track as a modified Mini found out around Stowe......

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WcidrFen4X8

Have been looking at the ST170 prices lately, although the 2.0 ESP/ZETEC's seem hard to ignore!! I'll be in touch with you Trials before I decide

 

My 44K miles FFSH 3-D 2.0 Zetec has just cost 2400

 

OUCH!! What was that for?? My whole car only cost £1800 3 years ago lol

 

£1600 for for my ST last August

Ross give me a ring before you buy mate