One category the Europeans have always dominated is that of the hot hatch. With entries such as the VW GTI, Peugeot 205 GTi, Renault R5, and more, the Americans had some catching up to do, although the Shelby GLHS was a worthy entrant into the competition. With the new Focus debuting in the States and in Europe, SVT chose to warm one over for a home-grown hot hatch done the Detroit way.
Although the Focus would not truly be a single international platform until 2012, the basics were all there. The SVT model used Focus hatchbacks in three or five-door versions receiving significant upgrades to the engines and suspensions. The 2.0-liter engines were upgraded throughout with better heads, pistons, cams, and more such that the final product created up to 170 horsepower, an increase of 40 horses over stock. They were further equipped with roll bars, stiffer springs, and re-tuned shocks to offer better control through corners.
While the Focus would never be competition to a Cobra, it made its mark by being a sporty compact with attractive styling competitive with similar cars of its day. They were affordable little road racers and can be a bit hard to find today as only about 3,000 copies were sold. However, excellent condition examples can be found on Bring a Trailer for around $10,000.
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