I wasn't really looking for one, but found a 2003 4 door SVT Focus semi-locally for $4500. 77k miles. Seems like a pretty good deal given that KBB lists them at $6800 for good condition. Haven't contacted the seller, but are there things to look for? Are these decent cars?
I did a search and didn't come up with much of this information from this board.
Generally, yes, they are decent cars. That is a good price...
TSB Thread: http://www.svtoa.com/svtoaforums/showthread.php?4865-The-TSB-Number-Thread
$4500? If it's clean I say go for it.
I would put a new timing belt on that thing as soon as you buy it. You might be able to negotiate a bit on that, but that price is pretty good. Bring some CDs if it has a 6CD changer. Chances are the changer is messed up. My CD changer is tempermental and will not play burned CDs and sometimes does not load when the car is moving. Keys are $75, so make sure you get the spare.
My car does not have traction control. The factory traction control cannot be completely defeated even with a tune.
Surf this site for Focus topics:
http://www.focusfanatics.com/forum/
BTW gas mileage on my car is not awesome for a 2.0L, but it really is a nice ride.
You will want to check out the condition of the motor mounts as well. I think a poly bushing for the rear one is the only real solution for not beating up the low hanging exhaust.
A short shift kit is a necessity as the factory shifting is clunky at best.
Take a look at the foglights, as they are prone to rocks. Listen close to the intake control... there are known issues that Ford should have fixed. It'll sound like a ball bearing is inside your airflow if there is an issue. 6-Disc CD changer is really poorly made so make sure it plays CD's. I think that's about it... if I think of more, I'll let you know! Enjoy it!
In reply to ccrelan:
Any specific short shifter recommendation for the SVT? How difficult to install?
There are a couple short shifters out there. I think I ended up with one from Steeda found on ebay. It was not very hard to install with basic hand tools.
Some helpful Focus SVT links, some SVT specific info and parts.
http://www.newedgeperformance.com/svtfocusparts.aspx
http://www.newedgeperformance.com/fordfocussvt.aspx
SVT Focus are lots of fun, great handling. Just address the issues mentioned earlier in this thread and you will have a great car.
Tony D Still driving both the '03 SVT Focus & '01 Focus ZX3 w/ Zetec
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