benefit of zetec

I'm assuming you live in North America (European motors are different). The Zetec motor is somewhat more powerful than the SPI (130 vs 110hp), but has a little less low-end torque, which is compensated for by peppier gear ratios. It burns a little more gas, and has an advantage of being able to run (at low power) without coolant in case of coolant loss.

Based on comments on this newsgroup, Zetec owners generally seem to like their engines. But in normal driving I doubt there is much to choose between them.

dealer in uk here told me that the zetec range in general had "sportier" stiffer suspension and larger alloy wheels to "improve" handling

indeed. on UK Foci the "zetec" models have 10% stiffer suspension and the

15inch alloys.

Its alittle confusing, as *ALL* the petrol engines in the Foci range are from the Zetec-x family.

Just like the engines in the current mondeo are all from the Duratec-x family.

Tim..

I thought the 1.6 petrol was a zetec-s (aluminium) engine (UK)?

In Europe there are aluminum block Zetec engines of 1.4 and 1.6 litres and iron blocks of 1.8 and 2.0 litres. These two series seem to be of completely different design, despite the Zetec name they have in common. Only the 2 litre Zetec engine is the same in Europe and North America. The UK Zetec badged cars have these Zetec engines (not the 1.4 though), up to 2 litre and 130 hp, just like every Focus in Europe. There are also Duratec diesel engines in the Zetec body now. Only the ST 170 and RS models have more powerful engines. A few posts here have indicated blown oil rings in the smaller alu Zetec engines lately.

Could you please develop this comment further: "has an advantage of being able to run (at low power) without coolant in case of coolant loss." Where did you find that information? /per

"Dave Gower" wrote in news: snipped-for-privacy@magma.ca...

In message , per wrote

From the UK Focus Ford Owners manual

Hi,

I have a 2000 Focus ZX3 5 speed. As an average driver the difference I find is just that little bit more "pep" when going for the pass or need a touch more power and response in certain situations.

Since I have gotten my ZX3 I have driven friends Foci that are not Zetec and personally they feel much more sluggish than my car. The friends will agree.

So if you want just that little bit more "punch" to your driving you will definately want the Zetec. It actually makes the little beast fun to drive.

That's my non-technical observation! *grin*

toodles

HeatherM

~GO SCHUMIE GO!~

...16" on the 2 litre model (at least that is the case on the 2001 model I own). It's a minor point I know, but personally, I prefer the look of the

16" wheels as they "blend" into the tyre sidewall and don't have a bead around the rim.

Tim (a different one)

Forgot to add that IMHO it handles really well. NOT the most powerful car in its class by any means, but certainly lots of fun to drive and looks nice too. Mine came with the "RS" bumpers and sideskirts (with the silver coloured mesh and round fog lights) which makes it a bit different.

Tim

i hate the standard focus alloys, hence why i am going for that "mp3" special edition with the rs style 17" alloys...

my own opinion tho of course

North American Owners manual has the same info.

Chris.