Today, the Focus MK1 in all of its forms still presents as one of the most reliable, practical and enjoyable cars for everyday motoring. This statement is as accurate today as it was 20 years ago. The astonishing level of detail and skin-deep engineering that took place during the 90’s at Ford of Europe resulted in a car that has continued to excel in all of its best attributes since its launch in 1998. Perhaps unlike no other car from that period. Cutting-edge design, fully-independent rear suspension, peppy engines and perfectly balanced steering geometry makes it one of the most attractive modern classics to own today.
What separated each model at the time was which equipment you had and ultimately the list price. What separates them today is pure character.
The Petrol models are very refined, peppy and have decent performance (even stronger in ST170 and RS) in today’s traffic and can certainly be driven enthusiastically with a hard-revving, hairy-chested driving experience.
The Diesel models have massive amounts of torque which makes long-distance driving more effortless through the transmission and nearly as economical against modern Diesels today.
Whichever model you are searching for, you will be the owner of an extremely well-engineered car and a class-leader during its production life and today is highly regarded in the car community as a pure drivers machine. MK1’s have always been highly dynamic and eye-catching cars whether a base CL or full-loaded RS with each engine and model having its own niche and character.
Parts availability is amongst one of the best for a car of its age with many aftermarket manufacturers now producing important parts where once genuine Ford parts were common but are now becoming quickly obsolete.