Welcome to the Preservation Club!
Home of the iconic MK1 Focus
The MK1 Focus stands as one of the most ground-breaking cars of all time. Developed over several years, it introduced features — both in design and engineering — that had never previously been seen in its class. It redefined what the public could expect from a family car. Practical, reliable, and comfortable, the MK1 set new benchmarks for handling and driving dynamics. Its bold, forward-thinking design language didn’t just signal a new direction for Ford — it helped propel the entire automotive C-segment into the new millennium.
Today, those advanced design features are a big part of why the MK1 Focus is widely regarded as a design classic. Many of its styling and engineering cues remain relevant — and even influential — in today’s automotive design language. Today now represents an opportunity to invest in a true icon from the golden era of Ford design, shaped by the engineering leadership of the late Richard Parry-Jones.
Launched at the 1998 Geneva Motor Show, the Focus redefined the capabilities of the family car and reinvented the boundaries. Balancing practicality and refinement with sporty handling credentials thanks to lightweight petrol engines; rapidly improving diesel technology combined with Ford’s new “Control Blade” independent rear suspension. This transformed the driving experience to give sharp handling and pure driving engagement, which no car of its class could match until some years after the launch.
This was recognised in 1999 when the car was awarded ‘European Car of the Year’ and became the best selling car in Britain, which continued throughout its production.
The MK1 Focus wasn’t just about sharp handling and engaging performance — its versatility was just as impressive. Built on a highly adaptable platform, it was offered in a range of body styles to suit all needs and lifestyles: from the conservative 4-door saloon, the practical 5-door estate, the sporty 3-door hatch, to the family-friendly 5-door hatch.
Across the line-up, Ford delivered a wide variety of specifications to suit different budgets — yet every model, whether entry-level or high-spec, stayed true to the car’s core values of innovation and driver engagement.
All of these factors, when combined with affordable ownership, excellent parts availability and a thriving support network — make the MK1 Focus one of the most practical and attainable modern classics on the road today.
The club is set-up to help owners keep the remaining original examples on the road; raise their profile, enhance overall ownership experiences and create opportunities to showcase them at events. The club offers a comprehensive network of events and aims to spread lots of technical advice, enthusiasm and passion for these brilliant cars.
Preserve, Drive and Enjoy!
As Featured in RetroFord magazine…