They're both good choices. It all comes down to your budget and the features you desire the most.
Here's a quick run-down:
The Focus will definitely be more refined than the Lynx RS. The Lynx platform suffers from more body noise than many other compact cars. It's not bad, but noticeable. As for ride noise, the Focus will be at least at par with the Mazda 3. As for the ride itself, both cars are quite firm, with the Focus being more composed over bumps. Handling for both cars is superb (The Focus and Lynx both handle better than the current Civic), with the RS having a more direct steering feel.
The RS is definitely sportier than the 1.8 or 2.0 Focus, being lighter and equipped with a manual. Rumor has it that Ford will sell the 2.5 Turbo Focus ST here in the Philippines, but I'm betting it will cost at least 1.2m. I'd buy one myself if I had the money, but if the RS is what fits your budget, you're not going to be unhappy with it.
The best time to buy a great car is right before a model change. Just ask the people who bought the last SiRs in 2000.
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The RS is definitely the best bang-for-buck. You get a torquey engine, a manual gearbox and all the goodies you will need in a small car. It looks quite good too. But then again, it's a run-out model, some sort of Mazda 3 predecessor (323/Familia/Protege twin to be exact).
The new Focus will definitely be worth the wait, but we wouldn't know if the Philippine version will have a manual among the transmission choices. If that's not an issue for you, then patience shall be a rewarding virtue. It's also tested to be even more fun than the Mazda 3 despite having similar genetics. Prices would also likely be a bit higher given that the Ford is slightly more sophisticated, but this should be worth every peso from your pocket. Even I might not choose a Toyota for my next compact car this time around.
Niky,
I think 2000 SIR is better that 2k1 - 2k4 ES except the VIT-S has safety features.
How's the Ford Focus ST WHP? i think the 2.5 with Turbo for 1.2M is reasonable price .. malamang e market yan in the next 2yrs/2007
how about the new Focus 2.0 torque & HP, is this same with Ford RS?
I would like car that I can easy make an overtake lalo n pag pataas... I'm not for racing but I like car which has better in cornering & handling... at syempre durability
squala.. hope FORD Phils will market the Focus with M/T.
Last edited by NSL; 06-20-2005 at 08:32 PM.
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Focus has class-leading handling, as if it weren't a front-drive car. The ST version will have more than 200 hp to kick SiR ass, but lower models should suit your driving needs if speed is not an issue, perhaps the entry-level 2.0 to be safe.
The new Focus 2.0 (around 136hp) will definitely NOT be as quick as the RS, as it will likely be A/T and about as heavy as the Mazda 3R. But the ST would actually be able to kick ass on ANY front-wheel driver (and some RWD sports cars, too) both in the turns and in a straight line.
I'm really tempted to find the money to buy another RS, but I don't know if I can scrounge it up in time to buy one of the remaindered units.
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For me, i will rather wait for the Focus, thing is, Focus is built with a racing structure and worldwide acceptance is sustainable, while the Lynx RS is for Asian countries only, it won't even pass the standards set by the Americans or Europeans for sure.
My suggestion is wait for next year, so that you can compare the Focus and the new Civic, plus, bargain na ang RS at that time for sure. Take note, resale value for Japanese cars are better in the Philippines. Peace to Ford owners, I'm also a Ford owner (F-150). But never buy GM cars, lemon talaga, mahal ang parts.
still... we don't know that the focus can do, will it surpass the RS capabilities.. just wait.. and then for sure, if it suits your budget.. then go for it... for the looks... ive seen the focus in the world trade. i like the RS, the style and the horsepower...
2005 Ford RS o wait sa 2006 Ford Focus
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