Ford Focus SVT Review! The Grandaddy Focus ST

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The Ford Focus SVT is the reason why the Terminator Cobra was so incredible. It was quick enough to outrun the original 03-04 Cobra, and in turn Ford put the legendary Eaton supercharger on it to keep up. This car is an oddball in Ford's history, and I absolutely love it. Right up there with the SVT Contour, the SVT Focus is a strange nostalgic car of simpler times.
#Ford #svt #terminator #focus #focusrs #focusst
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[@jaioncebollero1168]

I never understood how people don’t see the value of cars like this. Gearing, weight, suspension etc. Are all things that can make a car fun, speed isn’t everything. I have 2013 gt and will still never stop driving my 06 si.

[@lcameeno1]

🧅

[@Online_ToughGuy]

@@lcameeno1 an onion? I don’t get it.

[@lcameeno1]

@@Online_ToughGuy lol his last name

[@interceptingfist5682]

Didn't have a Toyota, Honda logo on it

[@jaioncebollero1168]

🧅 true

[@shaneeggert6866]

CAN WE TAKE A MINUTE…TO THANK DAVID….dude you have been consistent and just plain amazing and good since day one. The fact I can still go watch videos about the coolest cars from my high school days and everything else is in between is amazing. Huge fan. Never stop this. Ever want another veloster N modded let me know lol amazing content your genuine as heck man keep being you. WE ARE ALL HERE FOR THE LONG RUN WITH YOU.

[@bwapbwaaap3771]

RIGHT! Also he’s so freaking talented. This was on the third day in a row of filming and he did over 30 cars in those 3 days. And he can remember all this information and do a amazing job narrating it while driving in the mountains. And a genuinely nice guy. David is the man!!!!!!

[@bazzeil]

The crazy torque build in the low rpms and the handling at high speeds is what got me. Dual stage intake manifold and ecu controlled intake cam made a huge difference. The fact that this had the same numbers as the following ST without turbo lag is still impressive.

[@route222FAQ]

My cousin had a SVT Contour! I loved that car!!! It was jet black with gray leather interior

[@Luke-qs2cg]

It's not that they are weird. It's that every single kid watching this can feasibly buy one with their allowance. It's accessibility that makes some cars great. Not how cool they look, how fast they go, but how fun they are and how cheap they are to buy. Cheap+fun always = smiles

[@gadgetguy99]

I saw a focus svt in a parking lot recently and geeked out.

[@duhduhlovo1670]

I can see that I saw a golf gti in the early 2000s hand a corba the sauce real easy I was shocked way shocked how the golf squatted and took off easily on the cobra on track just crazy

[@somedude6598]

Hope one day you can review the Saleen version with nitrous!!

[@scottjs5207]

Wait... there's a Saleen Focus?

[@Krishilbun]

Focus SVT was my first car! Loved it so much, totally agree it sits to high though. Can hear the automatic locks just watching this video.

[@hyenaman007]

Ohhh cool, an SVT Cobra Focus 🤩

[@kylem2010GT]

This car has the soul of a British Touring Car!

[@vanguardsr368]

There was a focus RS before the one with the 5 cylinder came out. The focus svt is the same chassis as the MK1 focus rs

[@Superkillerdemo]

I want to see you review a Salden N20 Focus, a factory NOS Kit!!

[@jacobberntsen9296]

Jackson racing made a supercharger for those back in the day!!!

[@davidkelley751]

Honestly I feel like these cars are like the FWD counterpart to a miata. Just in stock form they are a lot of fun.

[@fathernitroz9619]

My homie has a ZX5 and we call it the egg 😂

[@L3giT_Hax]

There is also a mk1 rs with a turbo 4

[@danielsartstudio]

Awesome car video

[@bbbt8090]

Fords answer to the Integra/RSX/Civic lol

[@L3giT_Hax]

YES YES YES YES YES YES YES

[@koltonsofar]

Also let it be known the SVT had a Cosworth developed cylinder head. There was 2 packages, your standard SVT or the European Appearnce Package which came factory with HID's, Recaro seats, and multispoke 17" wheels. I'd love to let you drive my ecoboost swapped Roush Focus once the project wraps up!

[@zackraiden5875]

Focus ST was a yamaha developed head, much like the SHO but in 4 cylinder zetec form i believe, unless the focus SVT was different from our ST

[@koltonsofar]

The US SVT is a 2.0 Zetec with a Cosworth developed drivetrain, only offered from 2002-2004. In 2005 an "ST" trim was released with a naturally aspirated duratec 2.3l, part of mzr family The Focus didn't get a boosted engine until 2013 when the mk3 Focus ST was released.

[@zackraiden5875]

@@koltonsofar no the mk1 was an st170 which stood for 170hp with variable intake timing, many articles at the time quote cosworth having "a hand" in the focus svt/st170 development but they had nothing to do with it, the zetec engine is an update to the old cvh/pinto lump that had it's head fettled with by yamaha then they wanted more power so tuned the car a little, put.bigger brakes and firmer suspension and released the st/svt Then they wanted even more power and sold a rare focus in europe with a boosted 2.0 zetec, the original Focus RS Word of advice, dont use a car magazine as evidence of a claim... many magazines in the early 2000's were full of bullshit, hell fast ford of the era even quoted the svt/st170 as having a duratec 2.3 mazda lump

[@koltonsofar]

@@zackraiden5875 The ST170 does not exist in the US market. Thats an across the pond car, the SVT is the US market version of the ST170. I'm quoting what I know, as I've owned over a handful of MK1 Foci over the years, including an SVT. Our SVT is a 2.0 Zetec with Cosworth developed drivetrain, and came with bigger brakes than a standard Focus, beefed up suspension, a getrag 6 speed, and some cool interior bits. I'm stating facts of US market cars as that's where I'm from and where this car is being reviewed by ThatDudeInBlue.

[@zackraiden5875]

@@koltonsofar and i'm telling you, the drivetrain was not touched by cosworth at all, cosworth switched from vehicle overhauls to performance parts in the late 90's An ST is an SVT, there is no difference mate, the zetec engines were developed with yamaha heads, the transmission is a getrag 285 6 speed, the brakes are special one offs made by ford to handle the extra power hence why you need svt/st knuckles to fit svt/st brakes to a normal focus, the difference between the normal 2.0 Zetec and the ST170/SVT engine is the addition of variable valve timing, larger valves, more aggressive cams, the fuel system is one off as i believe normal focuses use a return line, ST/SVT uses a returnless system. The other difference is SVT's have a large bodykit to accomodate your crash tests our ST170 does not. I'm not here to argue over spilt milk but the cars are genuinley the same, the engine is the same (just has variant tunings and intakes/exhaust combos) the transmission is the same, 6 speed unit from GETRAG, the suspension is lowered and firmer shocks, literally nothing has been touched by cosworth... even the most powerful focus mk1 (the focus RS) was not touched by cosworth. The only cosworth focus was a 2.3 duratec test mule which was being used to design performance bolt ons such as intake and exhaust gubbins, so i repeat, an SVT/ST is not a cosworth vehicle and believe me, cosworth would not throw their name plate onto an N/A 170hp 2.0 fwd car... if you google Ford Sierra cosworth and Cosworth V6 you will see why the focus would have been a black mark on their name.

[@xchrisxwoodsx]

There’s a guy in my area that drives one of these! He always gets a wave from me!

[@lethalnate9461]

What area you live?

[@MrGapsby]

I own a svt focus but no one in my area knows what it is😂

[@xchrisxwoodsx]

@@lethalnate9461 Summerville SC

[@cmack612]

AyeeebI have a ts face lift!! The best color

[@TDG5502]

Glad to see these get some recognition! I picked up an 02 in Sonic Blue back in April. Its turned into my daily commuter because its so damn fun to drive. Sadly winter is approaching and I cant bring myself to drive my $2500 commuter in the winter because the body is actually rust free - a rarity in the midwest. Until next year... A good friend has a supercharged SVT focus that hes been getting tuned and ready to rip, that thing is quick!

[@ScoochScooch13]

I am more or less in the same boat! Love the thing! 2003 in black

[@bwapbwaaap3771]

That’s awesome I loveeeeee sonic blue. Definitely preserve it man!

[@malcolmgray.5913]

Have two st170’s off the road but still daily another mk1 auto. Definitely great cars to drive!

[@tastlessgarage]

The owner of this SVTF is reputable. Met him back when I had mine! Cool seeing Scott’s car on this channel!

[@bwapbwaaap3771]

Haha I appreciate it! I’ve really been working on fixing the car up and tracking it. It’s so much fun. Where did I meet you???

[@tastlessgarage]

@@bwapbwaaap3771 Red SVT! You sold me the euro grill and spoiler! Out there in Camden. I drive a MK3.5 now, the red SVT got me hooked on Foci!

[@bwapbwaaap3771]

@@tastlessgarage oh snap yeah man hahaha! I live in McBee now 🤘🏻

[@naratouzumaki]

@@bwapbwaaap3771 how do you like the svt I wanted to get one just because i liked them but I wanted to get more power out of it but couldnt find supporting mods for it

[@bwapbwaaap3771]

@@naratouzumaki my bad I just saw this. I love the svtf. I take mine to smaller tracks and it loves it and it’s a great car in tight technical courses like autocross and short courses. It definitely can leave you wanting some more torque but they are a blast when driving them like this. And pretty solid cars on the road too. Definitely needy cars and require a good bit of TLC

[@BigChungus12344]

My Dad had a 2003 Euro package SVT in competition orange. That car was an absolute riot to drive!

[@malcolmgray.5913]

Maybe its the car SDK racing do auto cross with ( they are on KZbin)

[@DailyDriver.]

Best ford color ever !

[@SlowZX2]

Now you NEED to review Gears and Gasoline's turbo SVT swapped Ford ZX2

[@soupsfarm1825]

yess id love to see this, is it still running tho?

[@tobylarrison4826]

its also svt swapped

[@DanielJopQ]

I had a manual ZX2, it was fun, but not great, at all.

[@SlowZX2]

@@DanielJopQ they're fun cars

[@SlowZX2]

@@soupsfarm1825 yup, he just took out the seats to put them in the civic

[@JesseCarmichaelAutos]

I owned one of these for 2.5 years and just sold it. Amazing car, miss it dearly. Everyone that ever drove it changed their opinion on it real quick.

[@MaxSpeedMike]

If only the older focus looked a bit better like the focus st lol

[@JEMeyers13]

This one has an odd look that I have no idea about. Possibly a generation face-lift because the SVT Focus never had those headlights.

[@hypership4847]

It’s an 05-07 front end swap with a SAP front bumper

[@eaklesd4743]

Mk1.5 look so much better then a mk3. Plus two door

[@tobylarrison4826]

@@eaklesd4743 i personally hate the mk 1.5 front end and the post facelift front end of the 3rd gen, i think the 1st gen front end looks better than both of them

[@eaklesd4743]

@@tobylarrison4826 you are so wrong 😭😭😂 I don't like the mk3 regardless tbh

[@MineTwine45]

Love the first generation Focus. I've owned an SVT for a few years along with a 2018 ST to daily drive and I still pick the SVT over the ST for a backroad drive. The SVT's engine is so smooth with its powerband and the short gearing is icing on the cake. Hear a lot of people referring to them as "FWD Miatas" of all things lol. Some suspension mods and a few bolt-ons and they can be autocross/backroad weapons.

[@Chadmuska64]

The SVT is amazing! I had an 04 Sonic blue ZX5 SVT for awhile. They handle like freaking go karts! I'll always have a soft spot in my heart for the SVT foci!

[@MazdaratiMan69]

One of my friends had an SVT focus. I never expected that car to be as quick as it was just stock. After he did an intake, exhaust, and headers it was considerable quicker.

[@RipYuTube]

I have 2 SVT focus, both 2 and 4 door. Have had my 4 door hatchback for over 10 years.

[@SecwetGwiwer]

I’ve owned an ST170 for just over a year now and it’s been brilliant! Very reliable, superb handling and surprisingly fast on twisty country lanes.

[@flycorvus]

High5! Twisty country road is Focus territory, especially with that cool multilink rear suspension.

[@jass9666]

Who ever is reading this have a great day

[@mountaincarjunkie3307]

You do the same!

[@CPMUNSEY]

The SVT Focus is the very first vehicle that I ever drove thru the Tail of the Dragon here in Tennessee. I’ll never forget that day.

[@mardamek3]

As an ex-owner of an SVT Focus I can say that the steering feel and overall handling is what sets this car apart. If you’re looking for sheer power to be impressed, then this is not the car for you, but if you’re the kind of person to chase BMWs and Audis up twisty mountain roads, this is the car to do it in.

[@craigbrown5510]

And I'm willing to bet you're going to outrun those BMW's and Audi's in that setting too. The SVT is without a doubt going to out corner those cars.

[@mardamek]

Possibly so, but mind you that I was never set to outrun them, especially with cars coming from the opposite direction. Giving them the feeling of inability to “shake me off it’s tail” was good enough for me 🙂

[@minimumtrade]

Had an ST170 for nearly 8 years, super practical, nice hydraulic steer and loved a good hustle down the twisties, decent natmo engine note. Bus like drivers seat, short on power and front end turn in, but you could easily provoke lift off oversteer on demand. Great car!

[@DoomSlayerSVT]

well said, very nimble car

[@robsorgdrager8477]

I had an 02 zx3 that I engine and trans swapped a svt drivetrain into. The zx3 was about 300 lbs lighter than the svt and I further lightened it. That little hatch on the highway was unreal for a n/a set up . From 60 to 130 was the best. A quick downshift from 6th to 3rd and you could out run 70% of the things on the road.

[@ajwhite765]

Hey David! Been a fan for years dude since u were at 100k subs. I've got a 2015 a3 quattro with the 2.0t from the mk7 gti and the stock is20 turbo. Its gonna be i.e. stage 2 soon but now it has a downpipe, lowering springs and a midpipe. Gonna make 327hp and 399tq at the crank. Sleeper status and I'd love it if you reviewed it when its tuned! Lmk if you'd ever be interested bro 🙃

[@ThatDudeinBlue]

Hit me up through email! Thank you!

[@ajwhite765]

@@ThatDudeinBlue will do!! Of course dude!! Hope you're having a great day

[@cafn8ed74]

Thanks for the review. I never heard the story about outrunning Cobras on the track. That's great! I really wanted one of these back when they were new. I ended up with a Bugeye Subaru for the snow traction, but still like them.

[@touncy1533]

fixate on the front looks, all front ends today tend to look like different stormtrooper regiments

[@svtfiend2650]

They had Jackson Racing superchargers that really woke these up, and a few companies made bolt on turbo kits that made over 300hp and they could run 12s in the quarter mile. Even with some bolt ONS and a good tune, the car was way faster. This car was the Pinnacle of hot compact cars until the SRT Neon came out, shortly followed by the Mazdaspeed 3. Which is basically the same chassis as this.

[@dirtyd2099]

I was actually looking into the saleen focus as well until i found out they didnt warranty the No2 that came with it...lol. i said welp, srt4 it is , and i never looked back.

[@sixteenseven123]

I’ve always been fascinated by these cars ever since first learning about them when choosing my first car in NFSU2! Honestly I think the car’s contemporary competition is way more prominent of a talking point than detailed in the video (not a jab I just want to elaborate further lol) but like really think about the SVT’s competition at the time, golf gti, civic si, Hyundai tiburon, WRX, Mazdaspeed Protégé, Corolla and Matrix XRS, Cobalt SS, Neon SRT, Sentra SE-R, Mini Cooper S, the market was actually kind of saturated with a ton of competition at the time, and albeit cool to have such a wide variety amongst the young car enthusiast looking to buy a fun car at an affordable price, that inherently means every single manufacturer was taking a slice of that limited sized pie, and thusly most of these cars lost their performance trims after the early 2000’s, including the Focus. It wasn’t until about 10 years later and with a new global platform did the Focus (at least in America) get another shot at carving corners and launching between stop lights when it got granted the ST trim. The interesting part about it to me seems to be that Ford honestly didn’t really change it’s formula from the SVT into the ST, choosing to prioritize handling and engagement while maintaining a fairly low point of entry for the consumer, but happened to launch it at the right time after most of the competition had priced themselves out of the market. Toyota had almost entirely abandoned performance by this point only offering the Scion FRS, a two-door, rwd platform. Nissan was only offering the 370z, another two-door, rwd platform and at a more mid-market price point. Domestic competition? I mean if you count the Chevy Sonic turbo than yes it technically existed, but really as an early-to-late 20something year old in the 2010’s, your choices of an affordable, everyday car that you can have some fun with, your options were the ST, the GTI, Veloster Turbo, WRX, Civic Si, and the Mini Cooper S. Now set your budget to not a penny over 30k and really the only options are ST, Mazdaspeed 3, Si, and Veloster. And I think that’s really why the ST did so well and why the SVT was so important, it taught Ford what they needed to do to turn iron into gold, they had an extremely competitive platform not really sacrificing too much in terms of luxuries and comfort, provided enough day-to-day utility to make it a viable daily commuter, made it slightly more powerful than their price-point counters, and overall engineered a very engaging vehicle that just felt good to drive, and had Ford not tinkered with the idea back with the SVT, I think a lot of the lessons would have to have been learned on the ST, and we might not have seen the coming of the RS if the ST hadn’t sold as well as it did. Now, consider the competition after the introduction of the RS, Golf R, Civic type R, Veloster-N, and I don’t think we would have gotten the same top-trims that foreign manufacturers have always relegated to their native regions if not for Ford bringing the fight to our own turf. I guess ultimately it’s an interesting little example of competition breeding ingenuity, and a slight under-dog learning from their experience and rising up to take the world by storm, punching way above their reach, and coming to gain respect amongst the top competitors of their industry. Good job Ford

[@JD-eo7dr]

They was badged ST170s over here we also got the RS👌

[@Alex-eo8gz]

seeing the SVTF getting mainstream recognition is awesome :)

[@tomcole020]

The Focus SVT is just a rebadge of the ST170 from England, And the Ford “contour” is the Ford Mondeo ST. The mondeo was super popular over here so that’s why they made the ST version of it same with the Focus

[@klaspeppar5619]

Thank you for saying Volvo 5 cylinder, i get extremely angry and annoyed when people say Ford 5 cylinder or say Volvo derived. The mk2 Volvo Focus RS, drive train is all Volvo, the engine is 100% Volvo, Ford didn’t turn a single screw on it, but did the American thing and took all credit for it. As someone with relatives who worked at Volvo Torslanda, let me tell you, Ford American and UK were unbelievably rude and near impossible to deal with.

[@klaspeppar5619]

@@real_talk1180 Volvo, the reinforced block is a must in order to safely make 350Hk with the 2.5, you know that the P2 R was originally going to be way more extreme than it it ended up being, I don't know for certain, but I believe the reinforced block was on the table in the P2 R's department, but didn't make it in to production. The 2.5 was a Volvo and Bosch project (like all other Volvo 5 cylinders in the other Volvos), one of my relatives was approached to help with doing the mapping of the Volvo Focus RS. Ford actually wanted to kill off the Volvo moduler engine and VED5/i5d, in favor of the Short i6, Zetec and Eco Bost, pretty funny how the extremely rude pencil pushers at Ford came crawling back with the Volvo Focus RS, the same people who wanted to kill it off. They really didn't treat Volvo Torsland employees very well and broke a lot of Swedish workplace regulations, they where so stingy and cheap that if you need a new pencil, you had fill out an application and get it approved by Detroit. Needless to say, by almost killing Volvo and killing Saab, the American automotive industry hasn't really left a good impression on the Swedish car market.

[@wesleytowle1297]

I have owned an 04 for about 6 years, invested more into it than any other car I have owned in my 40 years. I will continue to pour money into it for years to come. BTW, Electric seat on the driver side allows the seat to drop quite a bit lower. Nice seeing your view on a car I love dearly.

[@Phoenix_SW20]

There was actually a Ford Focus ST in North America around 2005-2007 with a 2.3L Duratec option. Basically a pseudo replacement for the SVT. I think they were all sold as sedans. You could identify them by the wing on the back. I once saw one for sale with an FSWerks turbo kit on it. Seller claimed it made 250HP. Probably would've been a hoot. Also something interesting about the North American Focus between 2008-2011 was that it was heavily based on the original MK1. Ford dropped the hatchback and the wagon and sold it as either a coupe or 4 door sedan. I've got a 2010 SEL sedan with a manual and it's actually a great daily driver. 140HP with a 2.0L Duratec and MTX75.

[@kenm724]

I’m really disappointed that you left out some of the most important and interesting things about the car.. all while calling it a parts bin special, which makes no sense. Cosworth engine involvement First use of VVT in a Ford 85% of peak torque at 2k RPM Factory 4-2-1 header Dual final drive ratio Getrag

[@rc_rewind]

If you wanna showcase the SVT Focus, you could at least pick an SVT Focus that looks like an SVT Focus! Thats an incorrect color, and a Mk1.5 nose swap. Which looks like crap. Good job, lets show off someones abomination just because you can get your hands on it, screw the heritage of the car you're talking about, right?

[@Tzalmavet]

A buddy of mine owns two SVT's. One he drives as a daily and the other is currently being built. He's spared almost no expense on a fully built engine, big turbo, and eventually wants to go E85. That car will undoubtedly be a weapon when it's finished.

[@subie25i30]

I had a 2000 ZX3 Kona edition that I did intake, throttle body, ford racing headers, flex pipe, magnaflo cat back, and Eibach sport suspension. That car was so much fun to toss around and drive hard on canyon roads. The lift off oversteer really added to the fun also. I miss that car a lot. I’d gladly take an 04 EAP SVT Focus now

[@eaklesd4743]

The KONAs go so hard 😍 I've got two KONA racks now 😂

[@lilmixdboy]

Yes my first car was a non svt hatchback. I used to rip that car around bends. It just gripped the road so well. I can imagine an svt version

[@shes_focusd]

Still got my Kona, and she's complete!

[@malcolmgray.5913]

I was about to say “ I know dis/dat kona and…”😂

[@vapour_xs9235]

There's someone at my high school with an old, beat up SVT... It's some young girl who I don't even think knows that she's driving a legendary car

[@SlowZX2]

You said you wanted to drive a boosted SVT Focus. Gears and Gasoline (short Ben) has a *Turbo SVT swapped Ford ZX2*. You NEED a video on that car. It would help the ZX2 community grow larger + you get a unique review on the channel!

[@NathanaelNaused]

People sleep on these cars but they're actually great. Especially the suspension. A lot of potential. I have a 2.5 swapped one.

[@grantmills4184]

2.5 duratech v6? If so that’s a hell of a swap

[@NathanaelNaused]

@@grantmills4184 2.5 Duratec 4 cylinder. But yes I agree that would be wild.

[@jappuhr]

Curious what you had to change besides the engine itself.

[@NathanaelNaused]

@@jappuhr 2012 engine from a Ford fusion. You can also use the Mazda engine. Minimum changes you have to make is the timing cover (had to use the one from the original 2.3 motor the car had in it), gotta delete the VCT system from the 2.5 unless you're running an aftermarket ECU, also gotta plug the hole that leaves in the valve cover (super easy $5 part from hardware store). From there you either have to adapt your old intake manifold (hard to do unless you're good at custom stuff) or you have to buy a throttle body adapter for the 2.5 manifold so you can fit the original cable throttle back on. Minimal stuff. I would suggest changing the clutch if it's factory because the 2.5 is way torqueier and the stock clutch tends to struggle when you really drive it with some purpose.

[@grantmills4184]

@@NathanaelNaused ahh I got you, well nonetheless that’s pretty cool and I’m sure it’s torquey

[@gerbenmol6982]

I own the Ford focus st170 its the euro version of this car and believe me its real fun.. im in a car club with it because they are kinda rear here and everyone how sells it regrets it

[@kartaku132]

Haven't seen that done before an SVT with a 2005-2007 front-end conversion with the sap package

[@cattleblack2254]

My focus looks just like this one. Except for mine is a 2005 Focus SALEEN S121

[@austingreene3524]

Just bought a 2004 SVT focus European appearance pack in Comp orange this summer. Have been daily driving it for the last couple months and I absolutely love it. Definitely agree with everything you said in this video in terms of driving it. Just took mine out to VIR for charity laps this past weekend too, and these cars definitely are a blast to drive on track

[@5Hidden5]

I had a 1.6l focus wagon as my first car. it was great, it drove well. learned to wrench on the focus. it was a good platform

[@jonathandeschenes2973]

Now I want one!!😭 and this is coming from a MK4 VW enthusiast!

[@Rolled_Focus_]

Damn now he needs to drive a very modified SVT or any modified Mk1 focus👀

[@XristosAnastasios]

Second gen Focus ST/RS got the Volvo 5 cylinder not the first gen RS

[@robertlorance648]

Had an 02 svt focus for 2 years and there fun around curvey roads I loved it and there cheap

[@rctankchannelone7558]

Nice to see the mk1 focus St getting some love 👍 bought my st170 in 2005... I still drive it everyday 😂😊

[@jusmin5025]

Literally watched this on my way home from work in my SVT focus lol

[@bwapbwaaap3771]

Hell yeah!

[@jordantaicho]

Ah you have to find one of the v8 focus from roush after this. I saw one in person and it mind blowing

[@colinsdad1]

I've owned one of these with the EAP package and TWO SVT Contours- one stock 2.5L, second a 3.0L conversion. A buddy had a 2002 with a blower on it- ZERO traction from a dead stop. SUCH fun cars- unfortunately, two of the three were TOTALLED BY IDIOTS ON THEIR CELL PHONES! PLEASE Hang Up and Drive. 👍

[@mrpmj00]

Rivian can sell the commercial delivery trucks not just to Amazon, but to every company that needs trucks because cities around the world will ban gasoline trucks. Tesla is a sinking ship. Tesla is now selling to rental car companies like Hertz which is the worst place to be because that it the LOWEST margin. And people don't want to buy cars that are part of rental fleets.

[@johnmitchell2269]

Such a shame you guys never got the mk1 or mk2 Focus RS models. Would be cool to see an American auto KZbinr travel across to the UK and drive a bunch of cars that the states never got. Cars like the Lotus Exige V6, the E46 M3 CSL, E90 M3 CRT, various TVR's, the Louts Carlton, Aston Martin GT12, Ford Sierra Sapphire Cosworth, Ford Escort Cosworth, Renault Clio V6. Some seriously cool cars about that were only sold in Europe.

[@eadie94]

David you forgot to mention the MK2 Focus ST with the Volvo 5cyl not just the RS. In focus hot hatch line up it’s: Mk1 focus ST170 /svt and mk1 focus RS. Mk2 focus ST and mk2 Focus RS. Mk3 focus ST and mk3 Focus RS. Mk4 focus ST

[@davidg4026]

The handling dynamics of the SVT were arguably better than the GTI, but the fit-and-finish and materials quality were let down by Ford bean counters. For example, there is a spot in the hvac for a cabin filter, but it was left out to cut costs!! This is true of every Focus of this generation.

[@MrAudi220]

That is called a focus ST170 here in europe, and there was a RS version of this car, 2.0turbo 215 hp, i don't think you guys got that car in the US.This model was so weird for me when it came out when i was a teen, especially the placement of the tail lights, it was so weird for it's time.But became to be a very popular model here, you still see them around mainly in 1.8 turbo diesel.

[@willriley1619]

I have always wanted to and probably will one day take a junkyard Volvo T5 and a junkyard Ford Focus or Escort and put them together. I'd also like a junkyard Saab 2.0t put into a junkyard Chevy Cavalier. Talk about cheap sleepers those would be good

[@jesterokjones4954]

That Focus SVT was quicker than the Civic Si at the time, my buddy had one with some bolt-ons on it and it spanked a LOT of cars it probably shouldn't have, lol.

[@coreyswan5690]

This is crazy because I'm basically restoring my focus wagon. I know it's not the same exact motor but I do have the z tech motor. And it is the best handling car I've owned. So far.

[@zackraiden5875]

What size engine? If it's a 1.8/2.0 zetec you can swap the heads and ecu and get a decent bump in power

[@Charusel]

My first car. Played Forza 1 as a kid and this along with the is300/Altezza were my first cars. I was so hooked with how cool it was in early game races that it made my list of cars I'd buy as my first. Got rid of my first one on my way to Japan and regretted it. Now I own a second one. It's clapped out compared to the last one from a decade ago but I still love it. To me, it's like an ae86. On paper its a s**t box but in practice, its a great platform to learn on and grow with. Eventually, you'll get something better but I think this car is a perfect setup for evolving skills until you get a RS.

[@travisburch4907]

My best friend has one; and I LOVE driving that thing. I got a GTI myself but I would still give it up for an SVT; it’s something about those cars that just flips a switch in your brain, you can’t turn it off once you drive it.

[@davidg4026]

The transmission was out of the Mini Cooper S, which people always thought was broken because it rattled in neutral, due to the duel mass flywheel.

[@treaco89]

ZX3 front bumper looks gross compared to the SVT bumper.

[@lethalnate9461]

Agree

[@FierceMotorworks]

A “slow car” with well tuned suspension and just enough power to feel eager is so much fun! You can rip around and not worry about getting speeding tickets. All sizzle, no bacon as they say. You can stretch it’s legs anywhere. How are you gonna make full use of a GTR or Maclaren on regular streets, and not go to jail for the speeds?

[@zackraiden5875]

Well to be honest, turbo or ITB's unleash the true potential of the platform, a turbo ST170 would outperform most cars in the hot hatch bracket until k engined civics became mainstream ST170's made 170hp stock, add a turbo or throttle bodies and that would easily go 250-300 with very a simple reflash

[@04dram04]

That "Dude Blue" color doesn't match your signature shade of blue

[@joojoosasa]

I owned an '03 Infra Red SVT Focus ZX5 from 2013-2015, and it is still my favorite vehicle that I've ever owned. I think that people misunderstand what makes these cars so great. In the real world, in everyday situations out on public roads, these cars are an absolute blast to drive, because all of their performance is available all of the time, and the driver engagement and connection is *so* high. The response of the throttle, brake, steering rack, etc is so quick and precise that it gives you a certain level of connection to the car and road that not many vehicles do. The same kind of thing that the MK4 Golf R32, EK Civic, and select others give you that make the driving experience so enjoyable. It's not going to blow your mind with straight line speed, but it will have you wondering "where the hell is the edge of this things cornering speed?! It just keeps going!" Even with how excellent mine was as stock, I decided to improve the suspension, add a Diablosport ECU reflash, and install an FSWERKS intake & race exhaust. After all was said and done, it was a seriously fun car that made even the simplest commutes a blast. I'm on the lookout for a clean, reasonably low-mileage example in either Competition Orange or Screaming Yellow. Bonus points if it has a Jackson Racing/Procharger or FSWERKS turbo kit installed.

[@mickaelsynnott4562]

The EAP Ford Focus SVT is one of my favorite car, I really hope I could own one ! I love this review they are rare for ford focus SVT !

[@Mike_Atwell]

I have a boosted 01 Grand am 4cyl 5 speed. 15 psi. Would love to have you review

[@Deetroiter]

The SVT focus in pumpkin orange is the best! Was one of the first modern US vehicles to really start putting the European market wheels on for good looks and performance

[@ayeluvy]

It’s nice seeing people enjoy this car, I have one myself but the 5 door and it’s AWESOME!!

[@shameemlottering9507]

Bro here in South Africa we only got 60 mk2 ford focus RS s and if you want one your not gonna get it because it's so limited

[@kartaku132]

Anyone who say the MK1 focuses aren't fun cars never drive a manual mk1 focus I've had mine sideways around turns

[@DanielJopQ]

Back in the day, I was really debating on my first choice as my first willing purchase option between this and a Renault Clio Sport. I chose the Clio, I liked the Clio so much, I got another after I destroyed the first one. I never really liked the styling on the Focus inside or out. And as a Mexican, I never really wanted to perpetuate Fords on the driveway since I grew up on american Fords all my life and I was a little tired of them. When I test drove these guys, I remember being so overwhelmed when I knew what was handling and true performance was about. Those were golden times TBH, where modernity and gadgets didn't overcome the essence of a hot hatch. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oZrOiGR3e9eegs0 I am all in for translation and discussion @ThatDudeinBlue

[@Peginafication]

Dude, great choice in cars! I've also owned 2 rs clios (172) and absolutely loved them. I'm now considering picking up a focus svt (called an st170 in Australia). Love the video you linked but unfortunately I can't understand much Espanol. Would love to know what the outcome is! I'd imagine the clio would feel faster because it's lighter but the handling would be similar. Peace man!

[@jordanhill4870]

i had an 07 focus zxw ses (the true wagon) with the 2.0 duratec 5 speed. i had svt rims with bigger tires and the thing was alot of fun and never had any major flaws. But someone smashed it up back in December :/

[@isaacsgarage7951]

How about my 2002 focus turbo diesel wagon ? The only one in America probably.

[@michaelcarter3149]

These cars are great! I currently have a 03 SVT, had it for the past 6 years. They are extremely fun to drive! As far as durability, it's better than any other car I've owned. I have replaced quite a lot of parts, water and power steering pump, two head gaskets (one was from me knowingly being a idiot and not replacing the timing belt/tensioner. Yes I knew it was a absolutely stupid decision😒.) but it has over 300,000 miles on it. This car has taken more abuse from me than you could ever imagine! I drive this car like it was built to be driven, every single day! I run it up to red line daily, it has zero bottom end, but after 3 grand it pulls hard until red line. Goal is to get a wrx and completely rebuild and turbo the SVT this next year. Can't imagine how insane and fun that car would be even with just 300/350 HP!

[@goaliepro1996]

I have a 2014 Focus ST and a 05 TSX, you dont need hundreds of horsepower to have fun

[@st170restoration]

It’s all about the back roads at high rpm. Great cars!! 👍

[@derekdawson675]

An N/A Ford with intake runners that out runs a mustang? Sounds to me like a baby SHO!

[@lifeonadime4703]

That car ALSO has the same steering rack as the ford gt iirc. That's the only focus worth owning that gen hands down. Well, if we could have gotten the damn 5cyl turbo model but nooo.

[@stupidgingers100]

10 more years and you can import a 5 cyl turbo Focus. 5 more years and you can import a mk1 RS

[@lifeonadime4703]

@@stupidgingers100 I can't wait either lol. Both cars are bucket listers for me

[@jameskimber8475]

​@@lifeonadime4703psst... the Volvo C30 is a mk2 focus ST in Swedish clothes. Pick one up now before they're all ran through

[@TJF1GH]

I love the 1st gen focus! I own a Saleen Focus N2o if you want to review it.

[@touncy1533]

have an 02 red svt, love it.. kept it totally stock. have other vehicles, but my svt is my daily

[@suazzz3070]

I had a 2003 focus svt with a Jackson racing supercharger. It was quick

[@bomfunk77]

In the UK that model was the focus st170, we also got a focus RS in same generation with 2ltr turbo with 212hp