While some people like driving sports cars, others enjoy upgrading a compact car into a true racing machine. Both the Focus ST and Fiesta ST trims give drivers a head start on making those upgrades since both are race-ready versions of Ford’s compact and subcompact cars. But which 2018 car is the best starting point?
Price
As you might expect, the smaller Fiesta comes with a smaller price tag. While both ST trims are more expensive than a non-sport trim, the Fiesta ST has an MSRP several thousand dollars lower than the Focus. If you have a low budget or you’d rather spend money on aftermarket parts, the Fiesta is a good choice.
Power
The two ST trims don’t run on the same engine. The heart of the Fiesta ST is a 1.6-liter I-4, and it uses a turbocharger to get 197 horsepower and 202 pound-feet of torque. The larger Focus ST has a bigger 2.0-liter engine, and it generates 350 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. That much extra power could make it worth the extra price.
Handling
While both vehicles are compacts, the Focus ST does a good job of feeling like a larger muscle car. That has its advantages, but it also means the Fiesta ST is easier to handle on tight corners.
Both the Focus ST and the Fiesta ST have their advantages, and they’re different enough that a performance-loving car buyer will have good reasons to pick one over the other. Why not visit Rusty Eck Ford and try them both before you decide?
Image via Flickr by stevelyon
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