Welcome to the Ford Focus MK1 Preservation Club
The growing one-model club for owners and enthusiasts of the iconic MK1 Focus.
The Focus MK1 is probably one of the most ground-breaking cars of all time. It was developed over several years which yielded innovations that no car of its class had ever previously displayed in appearance or mechanically. It completely changed the game on what the buying public could expect from the family car. It was practical, reliable, comfortable, setting new standards for handling and drive quality while showing off a bold new design language that drove Ford into the new millennium.
These years-ahead innovations now support the view that the MK1 Focus is now a modern classic but still remains as contemporary today as it was when launched in 1998. Whether you prefer the design purity of the original look or the facelift, peppy Petrols or torquey Diesels. There is something to encourage anyone to invest in a piece of motoring from the golden era of 90’s Ford automotive design, led by the late Richard Parry-Jones.
The MK1 Focus was launched in 1998 at the Geneva Motor Show and overnight it redefined the capabilities of the Segment-C family car and pushed the boundaries. Balancing practicality and refinement with sporty handling credentials on all models thanks to lightweight petrol engines; increasingly powerful diesel technology combined with Ford’s new “Control Blade” independent rear suspension, transforming the driving experience which no car of its class could match for some years after the launch. This was recognised in 1999 when the MK1 was named ‘European Car of the Year’ and became the best selling car in Britain and continued to be a best seller throughout its production.
Ford Motorsport developed the Focus for the World Rally Championship and the car competed in 5 seasons, winning 16 Rallies in total against tough opposition. Solidifying the MK1’s credentials as the ultimate drivers car.
But it wasn’t all about the handling and performance. The versatility of the platform allowed a variety of different body-styles and specifications to suit, from the conservative 4-door saloon, the workman’s 5-door estate, the sporty 3-door hatch or the family 5-door hatch. The specifications were impressively varied to suit all budgets but retained the core emphasis of the car whether it was a basic CL, a plush Ghia, extra sporty ST170 or full-performance RS.
All these factors alongside very affordable prices and superb spares availability makes the MK1 Focus one of the most practical, attainable choices of dynamic and innovative modern classics in the world today.
The MK1 Preservation Club has been set-up to help owners and enthusiasts keep these exceptional original examples on the road; aid the enjoyment of them long-term, raise their profile and above all else have opportunities to showcase them at club shows & meets. The club offers a comprehensive network of events and access to dedicated Facebook groups which aims to spread lots of technical advice, enthusiasm and passion for these brilliant cars.
The club’s official Facebook group is accessible to all members and is a great sociable platform to introduce yourself and your MK1 to a welcoming and growing community and share your enthusiasm! This is complemented by the club’s dedicated Facebook ‘Sales and Spares’ group which supports the preservation of these cars in enabling members to find elusive parts or advertise parts.
As Featured in RetroFord magazine…
Disclaimer – This club is an independent organisation and not part of Ford Motor Company nor affiliated or endorsed by Ford Motor Company in any manner.
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