Sunday 11th December 2016

Focus RS Mk2 vs. Focus RS Mk3: PH video

To Essex with a pair of fast Ford icons - which is best?

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Throughout 2016, the Ford Focus RS has dominated PH headlines - debate around the first drive, the twin tests and the Fleet updates have been animated to say the least. So when the opportunity arose to compare the new RS with five-cylinder predecessor, there was not a moment's hesitation in accepting.

Here Matt compares the two blue Fords on road, attempting to discover where and how the new RS has improved on the old car. Crucially too, there are a few areas the Mk2 shows up the Mk3. And just in case his gurning face doesn't give the game away, it turns out both fast Focuses are quite entertaining...

But which is most fun? That's the question to answer here. Which would be your choice? Are there any other heritage comparison you would like to see? All comments and feedback are welcomed!

Watch the video here

 

[big_rob_sydney]

Interesting to hear that peoples expectations around weight have changed. Maybe for some, but for me, I still think what is essentially a small car, shouldn't weigh 1600kg.

Also, to hear that the new car feels more solid isnt a surprise. It feels like a relative bank vault, because it weighs like a relative bank vault.

I would like to know some comparative track times, too, if only to understand what, if any, performance benefit the chassis stiffening has wrought. I do wonder if they had to give it so much extra power just to make up for all the extra lard.

I tend to agree that the older one is the pick. You prefaced the discussion by saying that its not the old adage of "new cars are crap and old cars are great", but in the end, you STILL went with the old one.