Photo: original image by autoevolution
We're huge fans of Audi's new S3, which comes in four body styles, all powered by powerful 300 hp turbo engines. They have all-wheel drive, adjustable dampers and advanced twin-clutch gearboxes. The interiors Audi makes are also top-notch.
But I still remember how excited I was the first day I saw the Ford Focus RS in its acid green paint with piano black accents. It was a monster and even to this day, nothing in this segment has stirred my blood the same way, not even the S3. Here's why:
The Focus RS has so much power, in fact, that it can't quite cope with all of it. In first gear, engineers had to limit the torque output to just 50%, otherwise the gearbox would explode. It also has some of the widest tires ever installed on a hatchback.
Are there downsides? Lots… actually, like the fact that it burns fuel about 50% faster than the Audi and costs a small fortune to insure.
Meanwhile, all Audi offers as standard are 18-inch wheels and a subtle selection of chrome trim pieces. You can drive your grandma to the hospital without getting noticed in it, but that doesn't make you a true petrolhead.
The Focus RS has a bigger engine
Yes, the 2.0 TFSI that Audi developed is very impressive and has virtually no lag, unlike the engine used by the A45 AMG. However, bigger is better and the RS not only has an extra cylinder, but also 0.5 liters of displacement. We have Volvo to thank for the block and Ford engineers for the popping and farting noises coming from the exhaust.The Focus RS has so much power, in fact, that it can't quite cope with all of it. In first gear, engineers had to limit the torque output to just 50%, otherwise the gearbox would explode. It also has some of the widest tires ever installed on a hatchback.
It's cheaper
A brand new Audi S3 will cost you anywhere from €40,000 today. But that's before you add the S tronic gearbox and some of the creature comfort features you might need in order to live with it every day. Not only was the Focus RS cheaper when it was new, it also came with more stuff. Nowadays, you can pick one up for around €25,000. When you do, you will be literally mobbed by people wanting to take a photo everywhere you go.It can set your pants on fire
Unlike the S3, which can easily put down its power using all-wheel drive, the Focus RS is front-wheel drive. Despite Ford inventing an all-new suspension part for the job (it's called RevoKnuckle), it has torque steer. As long as you're committed and know what you're doing, it's a lot of fun.Are there downsides? Lots… actually, like the fact that it burns fuel about 50% faster than the Audi and costs a small fortune to insure.
It's got a huge wing
Ford copied the Focus RS body kit from its rally car. This not only gives you a huge rear wing, bigger than that of an Evo or STI, but also really wide fenders, two vents in the bonnet and a really cool front bumper with a gaping grille. Did we mention it's cool?Meanwhile, all Audi offers as standard are 18-inch wheels and a subtle selection of chrome trim pieces. You can drive your grandma to the hospital without getting noticed in it, but that doesn't make you a true petrolhead.
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