Not Your Uncle's Focus - The Ford Focus for 2004

In 2004 Ford released the Focus LX to the car-buying market. The Focus came in seven configurations: LX, SE, SVT, ZTS, ZTW, ZX3, and ZX5. The LX configuration is powered by the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which makes 30 - 36 highway miles and 24 - 27 city. The Focus competes in the Sedan market segment, in direct competition with Kia.

Engine Performance

The Focus LX is equipped with a Ford 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine that utilizes 8 valves. The engine is mated to a Ford 4-speed Transaxle. This configuration has proven to be a successful design for Ford.

The Focus uses power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are disc. Steering is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The car uses coil and coil springs front and rear respectively.

Focus LX Statistics

The Focus is 168.10 inches long, 66.90 inches wide, and 56.30 inches high. It has a wheelbase of 103.00 inches. It is able to seat 5 comfortably.

The original manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) was $13,425 when new, with a dealer invoice cost of $12,581. This price was in line with the industry average price for a 4-door Sedan.

Fuel Efficiency

For the 2004 Focus, the fuel delivery system is a electronic SFI, using gasoline for fuel. A fuel-injected MFI configuration. The gas tank holds 13.20 gallons.

The Focus LX received a miles-per-gallon rating of 24 - 27 in-city driving and 30 - 36 when it came to long-distance. Being a gas-powered non-green car, this was subpar.

In Summary

There are several reasons why the Ford Focus LX sold well in 2004. Mainly the increase in availability and a marked improvement in quality meant the buying public was more apt to choose a Ford, specifically a Focus.