Focus SVT vs. Focus not-SVT

The new GRM Focus SVT rallyx project got me thinking: is the Focus SVT worth the extra cash compared to the regular 1st gen Focus with basic bolt ons and SVT suspension bits?

Honestly I'd get a duratec one and swap over the svt suspension bits

captdownshift wrote: Honestly I'd get a duratec one and swap over the svt suspension bits

Isn't the 2.3 duratec focus a rare breed? Like only 2 years had them or something?

In reply to ProDarwin:

In zx3 it's rare, 2 years nationally, with an additional year or 2 of sales in NY and California. For some reason the ZX4 sedan body got a lot more 2.3L duratecs.

The 2.3 Duratec was also offered on the Focus ST in that generation. And you could get the 2.0 Duratec in all 05-06 models.

It's been a while since I was into Zetecs, but I seem to remember that you can build a standard Zetec to near SVT power for not a lot of money. So you might want to look into that option too.

IMO the 2.3 Duratec is far preferable than the SVT if you plan to throw mods at it. You can spend thousands on an SVT to hit 170HP at the wheels with no torque, whereas people are seeing numbers closer to 200HP with far less spent on the Duratec. They also get better gas mileage and don't need premium from the factory.

SWMBO drives an '04 ZX3 2.3 5-speed and it's a fine little car other than the awful seats.

If you are looking for an older Focus, the SVT itself has been getting pretty cheap lately: http://pittsburgh.craigslist.org/cto/5948119940.html

Building a ZX3 might end up costing more. But a newer Duratec car might be worth the effort.

The 2.5 from the later fusions will also bolt right in with the right stock parts swappage (basically switch long blocks) for a good power bump, just like you can do with Mazda3s. Lots of torque too.

It's all about the SVT suspension. My SVT was (still is, just not mine anymore) a zippy little car. Super fun to drive anywhere.

I also had an 02 auto zetec sedan that my sister still drives. It's only ok to drive. just a car.

So, probably like the STI discussion. If you want a basically stock car, the SVT (or STI) is the way to go. If you're going to upgrade the brakes, suspension, engine, transmission, seats, etc anyway, might as well start with the standard.

Beater, project/track or DD? I always think about the best combo for these cars and for a project/track car I would build a 2.3 duratec, but f I would end up buying all of the suspension and brakes and rear control arms off of a SVT. For a DD the power windows, power mirrors, folding mirrors, cruise, remote entry and steering wheel controls for stereo are pretty nice.

In the SVT I do worry about unobtainium parts as it gets older.

Check this out: FSWerks turnkey turbo kit

These guys REALLY know Focus tuning.

pointofdeparture wrote: whereas people are seeing numbers closer to 200HP with far less spent on the Duratec.

So, you could probably get a Mazda3 to do the same thing?

Any hatchback you get the suspension and brakes will probablly be shot. I know you used to be able to get the whole svt kit for stupid cheap online. Not sure if this is true anymore. The brake upgrade used to be expensive. It's a shame these cars got so cheap it's hard to find a well cared for one anymore.

I once saw a 2.3 duratec, 5spd, wagon. At the dealer a half mile from my house. Unfortunately it was beat and had tons of miles.

In reply to nepa03focus:

In answer to your suspension question: FRPP Focus suspension kits

Brett_Murphy wrote:

pointofdeparture wrote: whereas people are seeing numbers closer to 200HP with far less spent on the Duratec.

So, you could probably get a Mazda3 to do the same thing?

I don't see why not. I'm not sure if the 3's engine management is any different or if its engine bay will accept the Cosworth intake manifold that makes the huge gains, but those are two of the biggest pieces of the puzzle.

There is a saleen edition focus. Nitrous from dealer.

stan_d wrote: There is a saleen edition focus. Nitrous from dealer.

I remember that, the rumor was if you actually used it, it voided the warranty. I dunno if that part was true or not though. There were also rousch ones

WildScotsRacing wrote: In reply to nepa03focus: In answer to your suspension question: FRPP Focus suspension kits

Good to know if I ever get another one. I remember one of the vendors was clearing them out at one point for like 150$, I didn't even have a focus at the time. Ht considered getting one just in case, lol. Also thanks to this thread I've been searching cl again

2.3 hands down best option. Id even skip the svt suspension and look aftermarket.

I think you should just buy my car.

I can't get a link to work in the forum, so cut and paste this.

https://grassrootsmotorsports.com/forum/open-classifieds/for-sale-2003-supercharged-zx3/117964/page1/

In reply to youngfg:

Man, that is a good deal. Of course, with grad school looming on the horizon, most of my auto discussions for the next few years will be purely hypothetical in nature.

Brett_Murphy wrote:

pointofdeparture wrote: whereas people are seeing numbers closer to 200HP with far less spent on the Duratec.

So, you could probably get a Mazda3 to do the same thing?

Hmm, I am curious. A 200whp 3 would fit my needs well.

Me too. Anyone know if the Cosworth intake fits the 3?

In reply to CyberEric:

Yes there are also limited slips and 4.9xx final drives available and straight cut gears for the 3 as well.