Ford SVT Focus

The Ford SVT Focus is a 1st generation compact car manufactured by Ford.
== Description ==
The Ford SVT Focus is a performance-oriented version of the popular compact car, the Ford Focus. Manufactured between 1998 and 2010, The Ford SVT Focus, also known by its codename C170 during its development, is a compact car that first entered the market in 1998. The original Focus model was named after a Ghia concept car that was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 1991. Prior to its release, Ford had been planning to continue using the 'Escort' nameplate for its new generation of small family cars. However, in 1998, the decision was made to name the new vehicle the 'Focus.' This decision was made early on, but there was a last-minute obstacle in July of that year. A court in Cologne, Germany, responding to a case brought by publishing company Burda, ordered Ford to avoid using the name 'Focus' for their German market cars, as it was already being used for the publisher's magazine. Despite this eleventh-hour dispute, Ford was able to come to a resolution and launched the car without a different name for the German market. The development of the Ford Focus represents Ford's attempt to create a truly 'world car' that could be sold in various markets with minimal modifications. Previous attempts at this had not been fully successful - for example, the original Escort concept in 1981 ultimately resulted in two separate cars for Europe and North America with only minor similarities. Another attempt was made with the Mondeo and Contour/Mystique in 1993, but these two variants still had significant differences that prevented them from being classified as a single car for both American and European markets. The Ford Focus was officially unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1998, marking the beginning of its successful journey in the global automotive market. The SVT Focus was the result of a collaboration between Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) and the European arm of Ford's performance division, Ford TeamRS. This partnership resulted in a car that offered a thrilling driving experience, with enhanced power, handling, and styling.
Under the hood, the SVT Focus was equipped with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-four engine. This engine was specially tuned by SVT and Ford TeamRS to produce 170 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, a significant increase from the standard Focus' 130 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque. The engine was mated to a six-speed manual transmission, allowing for quick and precise shifts.
In addition to the improved engine, the SVT Focus also featured a lowered and stiffened suspension, along with larger wheels and tires, resulting in improved handling and grip. With a sport-tuned suspension and precise steering, the SVT Focus offered a nimble and responsive driving experience that was not typically found in compact cars. This made it a favorite among enthusiasts and performance car enthusiasts.
Visual enhancements were also made to the SVT Focus, giving it a more aggressive and sporty appearance. The exterior featured unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. The interior was also upgraded with sport seats, metallic trim accents, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Optional upgrades included a six-disc CD changer and a power moonroof.
The SVT Focus was only available as a hatchback in the US, while European markets also had the option of a sedan version. Despite its short production run, the SVT Focus gained a loyal following and was praised by critics for its performance and distinct styling. It also competed in various motorsport events, including the Sport Compact Car magazine's ProRally series.
The Ford Focus RS Mk1 WRC was a rally car that was based on the popular Ford Focus road car. It was developed by Ford's motorsport division, Ford Performance, in conjunction with M-Sport and was used in the World Rally Championship (WRC) from 1999 to 2002. The Mk1 WRC was specifically designed to meet the requirements of the WRC, which required manufacturers to produce a minimum of 2,500 road-going versions of the rally car. This led to the production of the limited edition road car, the Ford Focus RS with only 4,501 units being produced.
The Focus RS Mk1 WRC was known for its iconic design, with its bright blue and white livery, and its aggressive body kit. The car was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produced 300 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful cars in its class at the time. It also had a six-speed sequential gearbox and a four-wheel drive system, giving it superior handling and performance on various terrains. The suspension was also specifically designed for rallying, with adjustable settings for different conditions. In its debut year in the WRC, the Focus RS Mk1 WRC achieved its first victory at the Rally of Finland, with legendary driver Colin McRae behind the wheel. This victory marked the beginning of a successful run for the car, with McRae and his teammate Carlos Sainz Sr winning six out of the fourteen rallies in the 2000 season. This success continued into the 2001 season, with McRae and Sainz finishing second and third respectively in the drivers' standings, and Ford winning the manufacturers' title.
The Focus RS Mk1 WRC was not only successful in the WRC, but it also dominated in various other rally championships around the world, including the European and British Rally Championships. Its exceptional performance and reliability made it a popular choice for privateer teams, who also achieved numerous wins and podium finishes with the car.
The Mk1 WRC's success on the rally stages not only solidified its position as one of the top contenders in the WRC, but it also boosted sales of the road-going Focus RS. The rally-inspired design and technology of the car made it a sought-after model among car enthusiasts, further cementing its status as an iconic car in Ford's history.
In 2002, after four successful years in the WRC, the Focus RS Mk1 WRC was replaced by its successor, the Focus RS WRC.
== Trivia ==
* Ford Code Named C170 during its development before entering in the market in 1998.
* This Concept Car was shown up as a unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 1991.
* This Car Jumps into motorsports until 2002.
== Gallery ==
FORD FOCUS 12 Pic Box.jpg|12 Pic Box
Category:Ford
Category:USA
Category:Compactcar
Category:1:34DC
Category:Motorsports