SVT Focus doesn't have the two hump power curve of the SVTC. It pulls nicely for a 2.0L 4 banger, no doubt about it. I didn't get the feeling that a lot of electronic trickery was being employed (VVT) to achieve the linear power delivery.
It also doesn't make a furious rush to redline like the 2.5L Duratec.
The overwhelming impression I was left with after driving the SVT Focus was: heavy flywheel!
It is unbelievable how different it is to sit in neutral and blip the throttle on the SVTF. Blip throttle results in delayed and slow revving. Blip the throttle on the SVT Duratec and you get immediate revs. You have to experience it to fully understand what I am talking about. SVTF in this regard is VERY un-performance car like.
However, it's a cool little car. I like the looks, and the feature set is great. I hope it kicks the ass off the Sentra SE Spec-V and Civic Si.
Kerry
99 SVT Contour Silver Frost, #365/2760
91 Isuzu Impulse XS Kammback, Handling By Lotus
Victoria, BC, Canada
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