2015 EB vs. 2016 Focus RS

[Devon]

R&T is reporting based on what they consider highly credible inside sources that Ford will be bringing an AWD Focus RS Stateside (and hopefully up here too). It will be using the new EB 2.3 in a higher state of tune than in the S550: 325-350 HP is forecast.

Definitely interested personally. I'd probably order one sight unseen if the S550 doesn't do it for me in a test drive.

Advantages over the EB Stang: 300+lbs lighter, smaller dimensions (16" shorter), AWD for winter/wet traction, possibly a rawer and more connected driving experience.

Disadvantages: appearance, no RWD shenanigans... possibly less pure steering feel (TBD)

Others might find the interior space lacking, or luxo amenities missing - my only concerns are handling, fun factor, livable ride.

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[foghat]

Could be a neat car. If it isn't as boy racer looking as the current RS, I'd certainly consider it.

But if true that it will be in 'extremely limited numbers', the mark-up on it will probably be outrageous.

 

[MustangSteve]

R&T is reporting based on what they consider highly credible inside sources that Ford will be bringing an AWD Focus RS Stateside (and hopefully up here too). It will be using the new EB 2.3 in a higher state of tune than in the S550: 325-350 HP is forecast.

Definitely interested personally. I'd probably order one sight unseen if the S550 doesn't do it for me in a test drive.

Advantages over the EB Stang: 300+lbs lighter, smaller dimensions (16" shorter), AWD for winter/wet traction, possibly a rawer and more connected driving experience.

Disadvantages: appearance, no RWD shenanigans... possibly less pure steering feel (TBD)

Others might find the interior space lacking, or luxo amenities missing - my only concerns are handling, fun factor, livable ride.

You're dreaming if you think the Focus RS is going to be 300 pounds lighter than EB Mustang. Current Focus ST has base curb weight of 3,223 pounds. Add bigger brakes all around, AWD, bigger cooling and all the other stuff for an RS and more than likely, you'll be lucky if it's 100 pounds lighter. More likely it will be roughly the same weight as the 3,532 pound EB Mustang. AWD Escape starts at 3,684 pounds.

 

[Devon]

The weight differential is going to depend on how much Ford chooses to spend on weight-reducing materials and technologies on the RS, and the type of AWD it uses. Personally I'd gladly fork over an extra 2 or 3K if it would knock a few hundred pounds off the weight. I do agree that a 300 lb difference seems unlikely - I was mistakenly comparing it to the 3700 lb V8 when I plonked down that figure.

 

[blue87turbo]

I'd love a Focus RS, especially with AWD. This car is going to be approaching GT Mustang territory price-wise, especially if it's as limited as some are saying. Hello dealer adjustments.

 

[stilesg57]

Different cars man. As it's been reported, the RS will be a WRX/STi fighter. The Mustang is a Mustang -- a sportscar/musclecar. Totally different driving conceptualizations (although both are fun!). But I'll say this much: as both a huge Subaru fan and huge Ford fan, I am so freakin' ecstatic that this matchup might happen between these companies that it makes me giggle inside.

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