help a newbi out :)

[Randy_G]

Originally Posted by Mullett

For sure, but do the math first...there's no difference to a Zetec except rims, skirts and springs

-RM

Well not quite accurate. When I researched buying the Focus, I checked out all of the models from the Ghia down to the base CL. In order to compare the CL to the Zetec properly, you would need to add in the comfort and safety pack, plus add on the optional wheels. When it was added up, a CL was not that much less than the Zetec. When I got mine, you could get a Zetec (auto because I needed to allow the wife to be able to drive it) onroad, any colour for less than $28K. A manual one would have been around $26K

[BrisVegas]

I paid $26,500k on road for my Zetec manual 18 months ago. If you're buying a car in the current economic climate, I think you could do even better than that.

But if you're thinking about changing the suspension and alloys, then i'd start with a CL/LX and save a couple of k.

[BlackLS]

TDCi makes a great base for a modified Focus.

Power can be boosted on a stock car to XR5 levels, has no bodykit so that can be added on without losing money, and has all the things you need like 4 power windows, cruise, electric mirrors, leather wheel etc.

[orsest170]

With some serious modifications, you could get the performance of the TDCI to almost match a stock XR5, but you won't actually get the same power. You could probably expect about 130 - 135 kw with a remap, bigger intercooler and cold air intake. Torque is already at XR5 levels and can be taken to around 400 nm with some mods - then you would have a pretty rapid oiler.

I had a modified Golf GT Sport TDI before buying my old XR5 back (it's a long story...) that had around 145 Kw and over 400 Nm, and let's just say I surprised a few of the guys on the XR5 cruises I went on. The in-gear acceleration was phenomenal, and it averaged 5.8L/100km the whole time I had it.... now if they could just stop them sounding like tractors...

Don't get me wrong, the Zetec is a nice car, but if it was me, it wouldn't get a look in against the TDCI....

[decarolis]

does the zetec have the same body kit as any of the other focus's??

[RJO89]

I don't believe so...

[Mullett]

Nope, it gets its own (just the skirts and rear lip). If you could get the Zetec for 25-26k, on-road, it'd be worth it, as long as you weren't planning to change the rims, otherwise an LT for 22k or a CL for 20 would be my pick.

-RM.

[decarolis]

but im not planning to buy new so im looking for a used focus would i still b in the same situation or should i just go with the zetec, my plans r to lower it, rims, and thats bout it for exterior wise

[Mullett]

Hmmm, in that case I'd just keep an eye out for a good buy, and probably a Zetec or an LX. The price gap gets a lot closer for 2nd hand cars, so just look around and grab the nicest one you see that fits your budget

-RM.

[decarolis]

yer thats some good advice... thanks and yer ill b keeping an eye out

[Mullett]

www.redbook.com.au will give you a good idea of how much you're up for

-RM.

[Velociraptor82]

Originally Posted by Mullett

Nope, it gets its own (just the skirts and rear lip). If you could get the Zetec for 25-26k, on-road, it'd be worth it, as long as you weren't planning to change the rims, otherwise an LT for 22k or a CL for 20 would be my pick.

-RM.

Front lip and foggies as well. the kit sits slightly lower but unless you know your focui you're not gonna spot the difference... Mines a Zetec and i'm looking at getting a new kit. Already done the wheels and susspension.

[RJO89]

Originally Posted by Velociraptor82

Already done the wheels and susspension.

Yeah you have!! :