2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 - Focaljet

**svo_dave** · 04-27-1995, 10:52 PM

As much as I can, I took a couple driving schools and attended as many autocrosses as I could thic year, but sincd I was away most of the summer I didn't get to do it as much as I would like. Hopefully next se`son I'll be able to make all thd evnts, I need more practice.

**Tell3131** · 10-28-2003, 10:44 AM

I am trying to decide between a 2003 (5 door) SVT Focus and a 2004 SRT-4. I have driven both and truly believe that the FSVT handles better than the SRT-4, but the SRT-4 has more power. So, what I am wanting is your opinion. Since most of you have a Focus SVT, would you buy it again if you had the chance? Or, would you get a SRT-4 or other car.

I am wanting to stay in the compact car segment, no mustangs or other muscle cars.

Thanks!

**dalola** · 10-28-2003, 10:51 AM

Oh God, not again....

**belacyrf** · 10-28-2003, 11:51 AM

It is really hard to pass up a car with 240whp and 250+ ft/lbs of torque. Especially when that is what they are dynoing at, at the wheels. I mean to get that type of power out of a SVT Focus would take race gas, so there is no way you'll ever see those numbers on 91 or 93 octane. Plus the SRT has a stock Limited Slip, and will have EXCELLENT aftermarket support, whereas the SVT's support is fading.

I just think the SRT is to hard to pass up right now. But that's just my opinion. The SVT is a great car, but I think the SRT is just a couple suspension mods away and tires from being an AMAZING car.

**TexVT** · 10-28-2003, 12:16 PM

You didn't give us any idea of what you're looking for other than four doors.

For everyday use driving back and forth to work or school, I'd pick the SVTF. Those SRT-4 seats are a pain to peel yourself out of 5 times a day. The ride on the SVTF is better too.
You just wan't good 1/4 mile times out of the box? Then get the SRT-4. But I doubt that's all you want, otherwise you wouldnt have asked us. Daily driving fun and comfort and safety? SVTF wins in my book.

**BlackFSVT** · 10-28-2003, 12:20 PM

Dollar for dollar I might be tempted to try an SRT4.

However, with the 2004 SVT Focus coming out you might be able to find quite a deal on a 2003 which if your on a budget tips the scale heavily toward the FSVT in my opinion.

Just for reference, I bought my 2002 when the 2003s where out and saved about $5000 with rebates and my employee discount.

**Foci S2** · 10-28-2003, 01:39 PM

These are the reasons I chose a SVTF over a SRT-4:
1. The Dodge dealers in my area were gouging prices.
2. 0% interest on SVTF.
3. Free 100,000 warranty on SVTF.
4. Dodge dealer wouldn't give me near what I owed on
my 2001 Focus S2, The Ford dealer paid off the car.
5. I'm only eligible for the Ford employee discount.

I would have rather had the Dodge just because of the turbo.
But since I'm a Ford guy and I was able to get a loaded 03 SVTF Euro for under $20,000 w/ tax I think I'll just look at the aftermarket for some forced induction.

**lourenco** · 10-28-2003, 02:04 PM

You would need to buy svtf with a aftercooled vortech kit to get the 240 hp at the wheel with 93 octane. The only problem after that is your going to be missing the torque, so I guess Tom's kit with a step smaller T3 turbo would fix that problem. You would have problems with the clutch and flywheel not taking power, so you would need to replace those parts. You would also need to add a LSD since the new srt-4 has one. You are looking at about adding about $7,550 the car to make it somewhat close power and speed wise, as the srt-4

If I was going to buy a srt-4, I would change the springs, change the struts, add better tires, and add bigger sway bars. I would put a real hoop scope on the car. I would also do what I could to make the interior look better with leather wrap seats or something.

I would try to buy a svtf for a really good price or your probably better off with the str-4 if your more in accerlation and speed.

**Tell3131** · 10-28-2003, 02:24 PM

It would be used as a daily driver. I agree that the FSVT handles better for day in and out driving. I am just concerned with the quality issues of the dual stage manifold clip problems. Are the 03 FSVT experiencing the same type of problems as the 02 FSVT?

The Dodge dealer offered me invoice on a Silver 2004 SRT-4
$19,700, no moonroof or side airbags. A loaded 03 FSVT 5 door would be arund $18,000 if bought for invoice minus the $2500 rebate (which I know I could get). So for $1700 less I get HID and Moonroof and Audiophile and Winter (I am not crazy about the winter package). Where on the SRT-4 it would be just stock (although there is something mesmorizing about the Boost gauge

)

Some more opinions are welcome.

Oh, I am sorry that I have started the same topic as before, but like everyone we all want other's opinions and i know that you are honest and will give me your thoughts.

Thanks

**Nalar** · 10-28-2003, 04:00 PM

Honestly, with the 2004 SRT-4 dynoing even higher than the previous model, I'd probably go with that. Factory FI rocks, especially with that much boost! It's HELLA easier to do suspension mods to get the handling up than it is to install FI reliably. Again, don't get me wrong, I LOVE my SVT and I'm going to keep it for a long time, but next time I buy a new car, power is certainly going to be the higher priority.

**USAF_TRobertson** · 10-28-2003, 04:01 PM

If I could do it all over again I would be very willing to give up a little handling and ride quality for the power of the SRT4. I cant wait till I get my Focus paid off to where I am not going to take a huge loss so I can trade in on a SRT4.

**Tell3131** · 10-28-2003, 05:02 PM

Thanks! All of your comments are appreciated. I am leaning towards the SRT-4, but the FSVT is an all around great car. Still trying to decide though.

Any more comments are appreciated.

Thanks!

**svtspeed** · 10-28-2003, 05:55 PM

Dude you are on a SVTF forum and people are still choosing the SRT. That should tell you something.

Remember you will just be giving up a LITTLE handling. For short money you can upgrade the handling on the SRT but it will take huge money to increase the the pwr of an SVTF and you will loss the warrenty by doing so.

This is a no brainer: SRT

**BlackFSVT** · 10-28-2003, 06:19 PM

Just keep in mind that SRT4s are laced with about as many problems as SVT Foci.

http://srtforums.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=fcaa8156a3e2aceb0553144bcf38a29 e&forumid=25

If you can't get the FSVT significantly cheaper, hit up the SRT4.

**GetImpact** · 10-28-2003, 06:27 PM

A crap-shoot on quality.

Poor and poor... IMO. These cars are dirt cheap for the amount of 'stuff' you get, and it shows.

Don't everyone get offended by what I say next. It is the truth in my eyes:

SRT-4 is the much better performer in almost every way. You can set up a very specific handling situation and the SVTF *might* win, but better performance for most any situation that comes up... goes to the Dodge.

A fairly poor driver can work the Focus in the turns with much success... excellent drivers will only get a little bit more from it. That's really all the difference there is in that department. Focus basically does the handling for you (inspires confidence?). SRT-4 in expert hands is a better handler (stock for stock).

Power? Well... we all *KNOW* the answer to that.

If I had it to do over again, I would DEFINITELY choose the SRT-4 among the two.

Trying to trade my gutless and problematic SVTF in for a Mustang GT now so I can be rid of it. The Mustang may be an old codger of a performance car, but it is built more sturdy and takes to mods a lot better (+ massive aftermarket).

3.73 gears in the rear plus a blower, and you are already on your way to a very quick street machine. Handling improvements will take some effort, but they are there to be made.

**dongnong** · 10-28-2003, 08:35 PM

All I can say is that it has to go on personal preference. When I was tired of all my problems with my SVT, I kept looking at the perormance numbers of the SRT-T and drooling...but after seeing it in person, I realized that I just didn't *like* the way the car looked. I dunno, maybe my car will blow up and I'll get one anyway

**GetImpact** · 10-28-2003, 11:15 PM

Heh heh... I like your sense of humor, Dongnong.

**SonicBluSVT 02'** · 10-28-2003, 11:22 PM

Quote:

A crap-shoot on quality.

Poor and poor... IMO. These cars are dirt cheap for the amount of 'stuff' you get, and it shows.

Don't everyone get offended by what I say next. It is the truth in my eyes:

SRT-4 is the much better performer in almost every way. You can set up a very specific handling situation and the SVTF *might* win, but better performance for most any situation that comes up... goes to the Dodge.

A fairly poor driver can work the Focus in the turns with much success... excellent drivers will only get a little bit more from it. That's really all the difference there is in that department. Focus basically does the handling for you (inspires confidence?). SRT-4 in expert hands is a better handler (stock for stock).

Power? Well... we all *KNOW* the answer to that.

If I had it to do over again, I would DEFINITELY choose the SRT-4 among the two.

Trying to trade my gutless and problematic SVTF in for a Mustang GT now so I can be rid of it. The Mustang may be an old codger of a performance car, but it is built more sturdy and takes to mods a lot better (+ massive aftermarket).

3.73 gears in the rear plus a blower, and you are already on your way to a very quick street machine. Handling improvements will take some effort, but they are there to be made.

GetImpact, I like your thinking. That is my plan this time next yr but I am going with the 03 Cobra. Put 4 to 5k into it and you have a 700rwhp monster! Hell, put 1500 into it and it is a 550rwhp or so car. Plus the motors are built damn good.

**GetImpact** · 10-28-2003, 11:50 PM

I have been eyeballing a Cobra convertible at the dealership, but that is only wishful thinking. ~$40K

Handling a payment on its baby brother (the GT) is a walk in the park since I'm paying MSRP and extra warranty for the Focus (total 5 years cost would be $26,500 if I kept it, and that with $4K cash down/no trade). $40K and I'd have to do some *real* work for a living.

Securing financing has always been a chore since I'm self-employed (hard to prove steady income). I know I could make the payments, but would they trust on that much? Nope!

That beautiful black Cobra (w/red interior trims) sure would be nice.

Hope you can get one.

**Tell3131** · 10-29-2003, 09:08 AM

So basically, very few of you are saying that they would but the Focus SVT again or for the first time if taken back to the decision moment. I wish SVT would supercharge the Focus SVT. Make it around 220 hp from the factory and I would be a buyer. Oh well, put $100 down on the SRT-4 last night. See you all on the road.

**Nalar** · 10-29-2003, 10:09 AM

Hope SVT sees this thread... it's almost sad to see so many of the core enthusiasts from this site saying we never would have bought it in the first place had there been the SRT-4 option.
Then again, I probably never would have gotten past the fact the SRT-4 is FUGLY! My SVT is still certainly the sexiest looking sport compact.

**svtspeed** · 10-29-2003, 10:45 AM

Quote:

Focus basically does the handling for you (inspires confidence?). SRT-4 in expert hands is a better handler (stock for stock).

This is funny coming from someone that doesn't race his SVTF. How are you basing this info???
Let me tell you how it really is since I know all about it's handling from first hand experience on the autox track.

It doesn't handle itself you the drive make or break it. the range between me and an other SVT guy is 2.5 seconds on a 70 sec course. Then the next SVTF guy beneath me is 3 seconds off of me. 5.5 second diff is huge.

And when was the last time you tested the handling of a SRT. Comon don't try to be more then you really know GET

**Tell3131** · 10-29-2003, 11:38 AM

Quote:

Hope SVT sees this thread... it's almost sad to see so many of the core enthusiasts from this site saying we never would have bought it in the first place had there been the SRT-4 option.
Then again, I probably never would have gotten past the fact the SRT-4 is FUGLY! My SVT is still certainly the sexiest looking sport compact.

I use to think the same thing about the styling and I agree the SVT Focus looks great, although the SRT-4 does look great in person, the only thing I am not crazy about on the SRT-4 is the rear spoiler, but then again I won't be looking at it that much.

To each his own. Carry on!

**GetImpact** · 10-29-2003, 11:45 AM

Svtspeed,

So many of you hate what I write, but my ideas are definitely in order (at least most of the time).

Why the anger? Is it fear of certain truths?

------------------------------------

Source: Sport Compact Car Magazine

SVTF (3-door)

Acceleration
0-30 mph : 2.9 sec.
0-60 mph : 7.7 sec.
30-50 mph : 3.0 sec.
50-70 mph : 4.3 sec.
Quarter Mile Time @ Speed : 15.7 sec. @ 88.5 mph
Handling
Lateral Grip (200ft skidpad) : 0.87g
Slalom Speed (700ft slalom) : 68.4 mph
Braking
60-0 Stopping Distance : 122 ft

SRT-4 (without LSD)

Performance
Acceleration
0-30 mph: 2.5 sec.
0-60 mph: 5.8 sec.
30-50 mph: 2.0 sec.
50-70 mph: 3.0 sec.
Quarter Mile time: 14.2 sec.
Quarter Mile speed: 99.5 mph
Handling
Lateral Grip (200ft skidpad): .85g
Slalom Speed (700ft slalom): 69.0 mph
Braking
60-0 stopping distance: 119 ft.

------------------------------------

There are many other sources which have witnessed the beating. Every place I have ever looked, in fact.

I already expect your response to be "Ya damned Magazine Racer!!!". That's fine (my SVTF keeps its warranty, and I keep my ethics), but let's talk about the realities of the cars, shall we? [And not your desire to cling to a poorer performer.]

The only superior performance trait the SVTF has over the SRT-4 is in the area of Lateral Grip. Great!... but which finishes first? Which one nearly ALWAYS finishes first (no matter the test)? You can make up that small difference of grip in the rubber or with a suspension tweak. Both are relatively cheap changes.

Now that the SRT-4 comes with LSD and the SVTF remains fundementally unchanged, AGAIN... which just picked up more speed in the twisties?

Hindsight is 20/20, but it is also the greater TRUTH.

Ford's moving like pond water in the SCC arena, while Dodge is innovating and responding to a willing market.

Hopefully you can live with that. SVTF = Hasbeen/Trumped

Lastly - Both cars are fairly ugly (get some friends with a little taste), but at least 'the chicks' dig my SVTF's interior. Only reason to buy the SVTF over SRT-4 (or even a PZEV Focus) now is if you want a nifty looking cockpit.

**blackbird** · 10-29-2003, 12:41 PM

Quote:

Remember you will just be giving up a LITTLE handling. For short money you can upgrade the handling on the SRT but it will take huge money to increase the the pwr of an SVTF and you will loss the warrenty by doing so.

This is a no brainer: SRT

Agreed. It's easier (and cheaper) to change the handling than it is to add horsepower. But, I don't think you'd give up ANY handling, just a little bit in the ride quality department (SRT-4 is a little stiffer and doesn't have quite as much roll in the corners as a SVTF).

04-27-1995, 10:52 PM	#1
svo_dave Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Nov 2002 Posts: 1,126	Re: 2003 Focus SVT nr 2004 SRT-4 As much as I can, I took a couple driving schools and attended as many autocrosses as I could thic year, but sincd I was away most of the summer I didn't get to do it as much as I would like. Hopefully next se`son I'll be able to make all thd evnts, I need more practice.

10-28-2003, 10:44 AM	#2
Tell3131 TEAM Member Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Kansas City Posts: 207	2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 I am trying to decide between a 2003 (5 door) SVT Focus and a 2004 SRT-4. I have driven both and truly believe that the FSVT handles better than the SRT-4, but the SRT-4 has more power. So, what I am wanting is your opinion. Since most of you have a Focus SVT, would you buy it again if you had the chance? Or, would you get a SRT-4 or other car. I am wanting to stay in the compact car segment, no mustangs or other muscle cars. Thanks!

10-28-2003, 10:51 AM	#3
dalola TEAM Member Join Date: May 2003 Location: Central Ohio Posts: 288	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 Oh God, not again....

10-28-2003, 11:51 AM	#4
belacyrf [FJ] Addict Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Where my home is Posts: 17,282	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 It is really hard to pass up a car with 240whp and 250+ ft/lbs of torque. Especially when that is what they are dynoing at, at the wheels. I mean to get that type of power out of a SVT Focus would take race gas, so there is no way you'll ever see those numbers on 91 or 93 octane. Plus the SRT has a stock Limited Slip, and will have EXCELLENT aftermarket support, whereas the SVT's support is fading. I just think the SRT is to hard to pass up right now. But that's just my opinion. The SVT is a great car, but I think the SRT is just a couple suspension mods away and tires from being an AMAZING car.

10-28-2003, 12:16 PM	#5
TexVT Rookie Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Texas Posts: 9	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 You didn't give us any idea of what you're looking for other than four doors. For everyday use driving back and forth to work or school, I'd pick the SVTF. Those SRT-4 seats are a pain to peel yourself out of 5 times a day. The ride on the SVTF is better too. You just wan't good 1/4 mile times out of the box? Then get the SRT-4. But I doubt that's all you want, otherwise you wouldnt have asked us. Daily driving fun and comfort and safety? SVTF wins in my book.

10-28-2003, 12:20 PM	#6
BlackFSVT TEAM Member Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Metro-Detroit Posts: 466	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 Dollar for dollar I might be tempted to try an SRT4. However, with the 2004 SVT Focus coming out you might be able to find quite a deal on a 2003 which if your on a budget tips the scale heavily toward the FSVT in my opinion. Just for reference, I bought my 2002 when the 2003s where out and saved about $5000 with rebates and my employee discount.

10-28-2003, 01:39 PM	#7
Foci S2 Rookie Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: Detroit Posts: 20	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 These are the reasons I chose a SVTF over a SRT-4: 1. The Dodge dealers in my area were gouging prices. 2. 0% interest on SVTF. 3. Free 100,000 warranty on SVTF. 4. Dodge dealer wouldn't give me near what I owed on my 2001 Focus S2, The Ford dealer paid off the car. 5. I'm only eligible for the Ford employee discount. I would have rather had the Dodge just because of the turbo. But since I'm a Ford guy and I was able to get a loaded 03 SVTF Euro for under $20,000 w/ tax I think I'll just look at the aftermarket for some forced induction.

10-28-2003, 02:04 PM	#8
lourenco Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: USA Posts: 1,393	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 You would need to buy svtf with a aftercooled vortech kit to get the 240 hp at the wheel with 93 octane. The only problem after that is your going to be missing the torque, so I guess Tom's kit with a step smaller T3 turbo would fix that problem. You would have problems with the clutch and flywheel not taking power, so you would need to replace those parts. You would also need to add a LSD since the new srt-4 has one. You are looking at about adding about $7,550 the car to make it somewhat close power and speed wise, as the srt-4 If I was going to buy a srt-4, I would change the springs, change the struts, add better tires, and add bigger sway bars. I would put a real hoop scope on the car. I would also do what I could to make the interior look better with leather wrap seats or something. I would try to buy a svtf for a really good price or your probably better off with the str-4 if your more in accerlation and speed.

10-28-2003, 02:24 PM	#9
Tell3131 TEAM Member Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Kansas City Posts: 207	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 It would be used as a daily driver. I agree that the FSVT handles better for day in and out driving. I am just concerned with the quality issues of the dual stage manifold clip problems. Are the 03 FSVT experiencing the same type of problems as the 02 FSVT? The Dodge dealer offered me invoice on a Silver 2004 SRT-4 $19,700, no moonroof or side airbags. A loaded 03 FSVT 5 door would be arund $18,000 if bought for invoice minus the $2500 rebate (which I know I could get). So for $1700 less I get HID and Moonroof and Audiophile and Winter (I am not crazy about the winter package). Where on the SRT-4 it would be just stock (although there is something mesmorizing about the Boost gauge ) Some more opinions are welcome. Oh, I am sorry that I have started the same topic as before, but like everyone we all want other's opinions and i know that you are honest and will give me your thoughts. Thanks

10-28-2003, 04:00 PM	#10
Nalar Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: Oak Park, MI behind a 151 induced fireball Posts: 4,876	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 Honestly, with the 2004 SRT-4 dynoing even higher than the previous model, I'd probably go with that. Factory FI rocks, especially with that much boost! It's HELLA easier to do suspension mods to get the handling up than it is to install FI reliably. Again, don't get me wrong, I LOVE my SVT and I'm going to keep it for a long time, but next time I buy a new car, power is certainly going to be the higher priority.

10-28-2003, 04:01 PM	#11
USAF_TRobertson Junior Member Join Date: Aug 2003 Location: Phoenix, Arizona Posts: 85	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 If I could do it all over again I would be very willing to give up a little handling and ride quality for the power of the SRT4. I cant wait till I get my Focus paid off to where I am not going to take a huge loss so I can trade in on a SRT4.

10-28-2003, 05:02 PM	#12
Tell3131 TEAM Member Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Kansas City Posts: 207	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 Thanks! All of your comments are appreciated. I am leaning towards the SRT-4, but the FSVT is an all around great car. Still trying to decide though. Any more comments are appreciated. Thanks!

10-28-2003, 05:55 PM	#13
svtspeed TEAM Member Join Date: Sep 2002 Posts: 487	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 Dude you are on a SVTF forum and people are still choosing the SRT. That should tell you something. Remember you will just be giving up a LITTLE handling. For short money you can upgrade the handling on the SRT but it will take huge money to increase the the pwr of an SVTF and you will loss the warrenty by doing so. This is a no brainer: SRT

10-28-2003, 06:19 PM	#14
BlackFSVT TEAM Member Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: Metro-Detroit Posts: 466	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 Just keep in mind that SRT4s are laced with about as many problems as SVT Foci. http://srtforums.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=fcaa8156a3e2aceb0553144bcf38a29 e&forumid=25 If you can't get the FSVT significantly cheaper, hit up the SRT4.

10-28-2003, 06:27 PM	#15
GetImpact TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2002 Posts: 246	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 A crap-shoot on quality. Poor and poor... IMO. These cars are dirt cheap for the amount of 'stuff' you get, and it shows. Don't everyone get offended by what I say next. It is the truth in my eyes: SRT-4 is the much better performer in almost every way. You can set up a very specific handling situation and the SVTF might win, but better performance for most any situation that comes up... goes to the Dodge. A fairly poor driver can work the Focus in the turns with much success... excellent drivers will only get a little bit more from it. That's really all the difference there is in that department. Focus basically does the handling for you (inspires confidence?). SRT-4 in expert hands is a better handler (stock for stock). Power? Well... we all KNOW the answer to that. If I had it to do over again, I would DEFINITELY choose the SRT-4 among the two. Trying to trade my gutless and problematic SVTF in for a Mustang GT now so I can be rid of it. The Mustang may be an old codger of a performance car, but it is built more sturdy and takes to mods a lot better (+ massive aftermarket). 3.73 gears in the rear plus a blower, and you are already on your way to a very quick street machine. Handling improvements will take some effort, but they are there to be made.

10-28-2003, 08:35 PM	#16
dongnong Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Charlotte, NC Posts: 1,254	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 All I can say is that it has to go on personal preference. When I was tired of all my problems with my SVT, I kept looking at the perormance numbers of the SRT-T and drooling...but after seeing it in person, I realized that I just didn't like the way the car looked. I dunno, maybe my car will blow up and I'll get one anyway

10-28-2003, 11:15 PM	#17
GetImpact TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2002 Posts: 246	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 Heh heh... I like your sense of humor, Dongnong.

10-28-2003, 11:50 PM	#19
GetImpact TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2002 Posts: 246	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 I have been eyeballing a Cobra convertible at the dealership, but that is only wishful thinking. ~$40K Handling a payment on its baby brother (the GT) is a walk in the park since I'm paying MSRP and extra warranty for the Focus (total 5 years cost would be $26,500 if I kept it, and that with $4K cash down/no trade). $40K and I'd have to do some real work for a living. Securing financing has always been a chore since I'm self-employed (hard to prove steady income). I know I could make the payments, but would they trust on that much? Nope! That beautiful black Cobra (w/red interior trims) sure would be nice. Hope you can get one.

10-29-2003, 09:08 AM	#20
Tell3131 TEAM Member Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Kansas City Posts: 207	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 So basically, very few of you are saying that they would but the Focus SVT again or for the first time if taken back to the decision moment. I wish SVT would supercharge the Focus SVT. Make it around 220 hp from the factory and I would be a buyer. Oh well, put $100 down on the SRT-4 last night. See you all on the road.

10-29-2003, 10:09 AM	#21
Nalar Senior TEAM Member Join Date: Jun 2001 Location: Oak Park, MI behind a 151 induced fireball Posts: 4,876	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 Hope SVT sees this thread... it's almost sad to see so many of the core enthusiasts from this site saying we never would have bought it in the first place had there been the SRT-4 option. Then again, I probably never would have gotten past the fact the SRT-4 is FUGLY! My SVT is still certainly the sexiest looking sport compact.

10-29-2003, 11:45 AM	#24
GetImpact TEAM Member Join Date: Dec 2002 Posts: 246	Re: 2003 Focus SVT or 2004 SRT-4 Svtspeed, So many of you hate what I write, but my ideas are definitely in order (at least most of the time). Why the anger? Is it fear of certain truths? ------------------------------------ Source: Sport Compact Car Magazine SVTF (3-door) Acceleration 0-30 mph : 2.9 sec. 0-60 mph : 7.7 sec. 30-50 mph : 3.0 sec. 50-70 mph : 4.3 sec. Quarter Mile Time @ Speed : 15.7 sec. @ 88.5 mph Handling Lateral Grip (200ft skidpad) : 0.87g Slalom Speed (700ft slalom) : 68.4 mph Braking 60-0 Stopping Distance : 122 ft SRT-4 (without LSD) Performance Acceleration 0-30 mph: 2.5 sec. 0-60 mph: 5.8 sec. 30-50 mph: 2.0 sec. 50-70 mph: 3.0 sec. Quarter Mile time: 14.2 sec. Quarter Mile speed: 99.5 mph Handling Lateral Grip (200ft skidpad): .85g Slalom Speed (700ft slalom): 69.0 mph Braking 60-0 stopping distance: 119 ft. ------------------------------------ There are many other sources which have witnessed the beating. Every place I have ever looked, in fact. I already expect your response to be "Ya damned Magazine Racer!!!". That's fine (my SVTF keeps its warranty, and I keep my ethics), but let's talk about the realities of the cars, shall we? [And not your desire to cling to a poorer performer.] The only superior performance trait the SVTF has over the SRT-4 is in the area of Lateral Grip. Great!... but which finishes first? Which one nearly ALWAYS finishes first (no matter the test)? You can make up that small difference of grip in the rubber or with a suspension tweak. Both are relatively cheap changes. Now that the SRT-4 comes with LSD and the SVTF remains fundementally unchanged, AGAIN... which just picked up more speed in the twisties? Hindsight is 20/20, but it is also the greater TRUTH. Ford's moving like pond water in the SCC arena, while Dodge is innovating and responding to a willing market. Hopefully you can live with that. SVTF = Hasbeen/Trumped Lastly - Both cars are fairly ugly (get some friends with a little taste), but at least 'the chicks' dig my SVTF's interior. Only reason to buy the SVTF over SRT-4 (or even a PZEV Focus) now is if you want a nifty looking cockpit.

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode