Give the guy a break. It's probably the most fun car he's ever had, and at 4500 it's actually a good buy if it's in good condition. People judge so hard on these videos it's insane.. He's a fellow car enthusiast, should take care of each other...
I got mine for 2100 and added just few hundred bucks, man the car feels like a rallycar, the position of ebrake, the shifter, its just awesome. I loved it. Although not a fwd fan, but, this is different, the exhaust sounds awesome
Former SVTF owner, I loved that car. It was such a little back road beast. We lovingly nicknamed it the Angry Sewing Machine. With the right tires, it could keep up with 350z's and RX-8s in the turns, and that's not hype. Yeah, dude was a little excited to be on Smoking Tire, but good for him at his age and that budget.
Another former zx3 svtf owner. Great car. This guy got screwed with the price though. Bought mine with 100k mile in 2011 for 3,5 grand. With a short-throw shifter that getrag becomes one of the best stick shifts I ever drove.
I used to have one as well. It was heavily modified the 6 speed is nice. They put down about 145whp stock and with his mods about 170. I had a quafie lsd in mine, best upgrade ever
That closing comment with Matt shutting him down, is how villains are created. The guy already said he wasn't good with public speaking, and it looked like he took it extra hard. He will be plotting his vengeance for years to come.
Hey matt, incase it wasn't clear I agree with you 100%. Honesty and a balanced opinion the reason I think we all enjoy the videos. I'm more or less poking fun. Cheers
His comment about the older focus generations is pretty accurate. Within the Focus community...finding a well kept original SVT for example is like finding a gem. The current ST wouldn't even be around without this car
Lots of them on ebay and craigslist. $2,000 for a runner $3,000 for a clean one. The ST170 existed before the SVT, Europe got the RS the US didn't. The current RS and ST owe nothing to the SVT. Ford was producing high performance small cars with Lotus back in 60's with the escort and cortinas.
At least not in the states - that car needed to perform well here for Ford to consider bringing the ST over. Just wish that they were still selling the Mk4 here, and that we got the Mk2 turbo 5 cylinder.
Gregory Davis I think that distinction may belong to the SVT Contour. I remember working on them when they were in warranty. They'd come in with a 3 page list of recalls.
I bought mine in 2004, a 2003 left over, paid $13,995 brand new, its a coupe, loved the car then gave it to my daughter when I bought in my 2014 Evolution GSR. The focus 6spd manual is money, specially on the highway compare to evo 5sp, I'm doing 70mph in the evo 3200 rpm and the SVT is on 6spd around 2800rpm. Cool review Matt.
lol there are a few video's of new edge v6's with built motors and boost making over 450whp. i personally don't give a rats ass but if you want something different with potential, there you go. in stock form they just suck in my opinion.
I dig this vid. I've got a 2002 Focus SVT ZX3 with about 81k miles on it. this is totally the car I want to keep forever, and while I'm spending money on it to bring it back to looking stock, I think its worth it. Such a fun car to drive.
Have you ever owned a supercharged car? this is not the case. They rev just as fast, if not faster due to more power. They make more power at all RPMS when using a supercharger..
Andrew Brinkman I understand. It adds torque to certain engines bottom end. But when done to a small engine, the rpms are heavier. Since the supercharger uses the crank as a power source...
Hugely underrated car. It was my first car straight out of high school, and they are fantastic. Certainly won't win any drag races but if you like a car that sounds great, and handles beautifully, you will love this car.
Awesome SVT! I would say this a pretty good representation of the focus. I bought my 05 zx3 with 70k miles for 3300 and it has been well worth the money. Has been a fun car to learn to drive manual with and is a good stepping stone to momentum driving! My zx3 has almost identical mods and is a straight line turd but is really fun in the corners.Overall a great car to learn on. I finish college next year and look forward to grabbing a FiST after graduation!
My buddy had one in HS Dare i say going on 14 years ago... But i remeber his sounding very cool. They have a Dual stage intake manifold, Sounds sweet when it changes over.
I used to have an 03 EAP 3dr; loved to wind it out, it handled really well. These are loads different than the base focus. Tuned 2.0 with forged rods and higher compression with a 7,350 redline, variable cams, a getrag 6mt, much bigger all wheel disc brakes, full length factory-tuned stainless exhaust, 17x7 wheels w/ 215/45/17's, stiffer springs & dampers. It was a great car from the factory. A factory LSD would have improved it (torque steer and peg-legging it FWD style sucked). It competed mainly with the civic Si & mini cooper s of the day, not quite up to wrx srt-4 levels, except in handling. EAP added heated mirrors, full leather interior with heated recaros up front, and some nicer multi-spoke gunmetal wheels (which showed up on the next gen focus). Although a lot of this stuff is standard on cars today, in the early 2000's it was not.
Yep, completely agree. I owned an 03 EAP new and later an 04 with 100k miles. Great cars and one of the best performance values out there. Great reviews at the time and it was a better car than the GTI, Cooper, and Si. There was a ton of SVT effort put in this car at the time. Next bump up was to WRX and Evo - but that was a big price jump. The EAP Recaros were great as well. I currently own a Fiesta ST, and there are a ton of similarities between these cars. Matt is right about the steering though! BTW, the Getrag 6MT was the same trans that was in the Cooper S. Also loved the SVT Contour. Need to get a clean one of those on a TST vid!
This was a weird video, there is tension in the air but I can see why. The guy is clearly over appreciating his Focus, I mean come on, the RS brings up the value of this one because people would rather have this?
I think you always get a tension in the video when owners say super rose-tinted things about their own cars and I have to really fight the urge to be a dick. When the owners and I can have a truly honest conversation about the car's benefits and shortcomings, you get the best videos. Edit - to clarify, I am used to this and in the real world, it is not a big deal and the owner was a perfect gentleman and a pleasure to spend a couple hours with, even if his nervousness got the best f him.
If you come to Quebec one of these days you're welcome to shit on my car all you want, could even arrange it on a track hehe. Altho I believe you were done with Miatas :D
Thanks guys for the video, the Focus SVT is a bit underappreciated, I have a 2 door black 2002 Focus SVT with 58,000, I never imagined I would fall in love with a Focus, what a fast fun inexpensive car. Regrettably I will need to sell as I will be out of garage room
Definitely underappreciated! Mine just rolled over 218k. Still has great compression, but rebuilding the head next year. Planning to turbo. Best car I've ever owned!
More like "Kid goes to dealer wanting an RS but sees the price and his mom and dad say no but check out this USED 14 YEAR OLD SVT we took in on trade...."
Kal Mack you're welcome and I'm glad you had that list. More of the people who's cars he drives need to do that. I'm saving up hoping I can get that Focus RS one day! One dealership by me have 5 of them! Good luck.
I think he has a semi valid point when he says the RS is bringing up the value of his car. I don't know if it's in particular just driving up the SVT Focus market, but I definitely think hot hatches are becoming popular again. Maybe they'll rise in value. Who knows.
Strange coincidence, I drove down to Venice Feb 4th 2017 to pick up a windshield for my Atom from the Bay Area, and decide to check out the beach and as I was driving down the side street I saw you talking with a female neighbor Sunday morning. You live on the beach, that is wicked!!! Congrats on doing what you love and making it!
Proud owner of 2 Focus SVT's! Guys, they are great cars. Super comfortable and easy to drive, and these cars can take forced induction on stock motor. (Around 7-9 psi)
I drove a 4 door 2004 SVT Focus from Ontario, CA to Albuquerque, NM and had a blast! What a fun little car. I used to bash these cars during my DC2 Integra days, but this Focus is what opened my Honda heart up to buying my 2015 Focus ST!
Yea, haha - I felt bad for the kid. He was obviously in love with his car, and that is cool. Matt obviously has driven and owns basically whatever he wants so this is nothing to him. But that is that dude's favorite car in the world because it's his. Reading the comments suck - people need to try spending more time encouraging younger generations rather than roasting them for not having the resources to buy the halo cars that everyone wants. I have a loaded 2016 Focus ST, and am looking at buying an SVT Focus to make into a little autox / track beater so I don't abuse my daily.
He's very enthusiastic about his car. I can appreciate that. It's a much cooler car that what I had at his age. We need guys like him. While it might grate the nerves of some of the more seasoned car guys when specs seem out of whack, it's small potatoes. Without this generation getting in to cars, we could very well see the car scene begin to die. Fewer and fewer young folks are driving enthusiasts.
You on crack?? the car scene has never been bigger with what used to be top of the range motors now being cheap as chips. The car scene will never die, unless electric cars take over like i robot lol
Already got manley pistons, manley connecting rods and acl race bearings. Just waiting to throw on a bigger turbo along with fuel upgrades and AEM water/meth
I loved this video especially when he saids he bought the car for $4,500 making minimum wage. I always like seeing people with cheap fun enthusiasts cars (New edge GTs, Miatas, WRXs, Srt 4s, cobalt and Impala SS’). Just goes to show you don’t need to make bank to have fun!!
Got to test drive a stock one of these today. Had to walk away from it sadly... But honestly, this is easily one of the top 5 best handling cars I've ever got to drive in my life! Never going to forget that experience. 😁
Glad Matt was able drive a pretty clean example and enjoy it! If anyone is interested in a really cheap and fun hatch, put this one on your test-drive list. It has shortcomings of course (what car doesn't?) but for the price you can get these things for nowadays (3-4k for a decently clean example), it's a lot of fun for the money! If you're interested in my opinions as a former SVTf owner (I drive a MK7 GTI now....TORQUE!) Pros: -Cheap to own and repair (some of the parts are SVT specific and are a bit costly but most parts are generic ford stuff) -Great fun on the twisties -Fun, high revving engine with a pretty slick 6 speed that's fun to row through -Practical, especially as a 5-door Cons: -Not that reliable (timing belts!!!) In 2.5 years of ownership, the car left me stranded on the side of the road twice -Interior is cheap early 2000's ford crap, except the recaro seats (comes with the euro apperance package) which are surprisingly good! -The tuner crowd always want to "race you" at every stop light -Had plastic rattles over every bump (at least in my car!)
I owned a SVT ZX3 W/EAP, in all honestly the car only comes alive above 4K as the IMRC (which I replaced) opens above 3K. There is a woeful lack of torque ( see above) You are spot on about the timing belt, the real issue are the T belt tensioner & Idler pulley, always do a timing kit as if you lose a belt you will bend valves. T-belt and tensioner/idler are the same as other zetecs. Part stores will get you the wrong parts all the time (pass side eng mount, Brakes, etc) are different than a non SVT. Yes the car handles very well, but overall the Mazda 3 2.3S (or 2.5) gives you a better driving feel. The clutch in the ZX3 and the pedal feel is great, the cable actuated shifter is good but it can be real problematic, the gear ratios are too close. I agree on the plastics, they warp or break, the sunroof jams, the window regulators are shit, shift and e brake boots shrink to the point where they pop out. Door panel inserts come unglued. Then you have electrical issues... As far as values, I'll be 100% honest my car was 100% stock and clean I was second owner, clean car fax. I sorted every problem before I even listed it, I sold it with fresh tires and brakes, I had no paint fade and about 100K mi it was hard to sell. I had it on CL, Autotrader, Car Gurus for months I got almost 3K, I felt it should have been worth 4.5K in the end I just wanted it gone before something else broke.
Screamin' Yellow SVTF Awesome little Focus. Quick, good on gas and at 176,000 miles, my 2004 ZX5 with the EAP runs, shifts and handles fantastic. Very under rated vehicle but their value is increasing.
I agree with him, the SVT focus is definitely a car that needs to stay naturally aspirated. The 6 speed tight gearing and NA engine makes a really fun rev happy car to drive. all gears after 3rd become really tight. The turn radius does kinda suck haha but I love my SVT, and I've owned a bunch of Hondas over 200whp. The only real shame is that there isn't enough people out there who would tear this thing apart and rebuild them on ITBs, stand alones, etc. like people do with Hondas. for stock it's a nibble hot hatch at a steal of a deal =)
I owned one, wouldn't buy another. The Civic SI for few bucks more will be Honda reliable, and you can get into a Mazda 3 2.3 for roughly the same money as an SVTF.
different strokes for different folks. New plans for my SVT will be a k20 swap.. lol guess i do want to build another honda, but not drive one :P sounds like a crazy idea but its doable
SVT. O4. I've still got mine. Canyon carver. One of the best hatches Ford ever put out. Thing is really good at speed in corners. It has a quicker ratio steering box than the base model focus, 4 wheel discs, 6 speed Getrag, lower firmer suspension than the base model. That engine, the 2 litre zetech, was specked by Cosworth, and is sought after by the racetrack guys. Huge potential that no one expects. Go turbo/ get 300hp. Scary fun.
great video matt! it must be hard being friendly with everyone while respecting their cars. kal good car man, but have fun out there. no car is perfect and taking constructive criticism from a guy who drives cars for a living is nothing to be defensive about. gl on your build!
TheReal NateDogg no one follows that emissions bullshit out here. It’s only every other year. 2004 or new they just look to see if the check engine light is on and look at the intake and exhaust no actual computer reading of the emissions. There’s plenty of 50 state legal intake systems. It’s easy to pass but I have friends that have to swap their pipes every time.
Jesus so much hate on this thing for no reason. Yes the owner seemed nervous and maybe a bit misinformed about areas of his car- or maybe even an enthusiast in the making. Everyone starts somewhere. Matt, good on you for correcting what you could and painting an accurate picture of a nice little Fuckus
in europe its called a ford focus ST170. you can buy them really cheap for 1500€ (in the netherlands) . those cars where known to have good handling, and a good balanced chassis. good choice :)
16ValveVtec yea you are correct. That model weights just over 2750lbs. At the time I drove a zx2 which is a 2 door escort with almost the exact same focus svt motor (vct only on one end, not both intake/exhaust) and that car weighted 2500lbs. I really wish people were accurate with numbers. Its not hard.
Thank you (everyone) on the weight, I knew damn well it wasn't 2300 lbs. Looked it up, 2750, 450 lbs on that much power is a huge difference.. My old Z car was close to 2300-2400 and it was tinny AF, I knew this had to weigh much more.
I bought a 2002 SVTF (3-door) and loved that little car. Definitely a momentum car. Not enough power but handling was superior. I kept mine showroom stock. I took it to Laguna Seca and turned sub 2 minute laps (1 min. 59 sec.) also tracked it at Buttonwillow, Willow Springs and Streets of Willow Springs. Couldn't pass anybody, but hung on the rear bumper of much more powerful cars. Usually got a wave by and they'd have to brake so I could get past. Cosworth tuned engine from the factory. Indépendant rear suspension Bigger discs on all corners. 6-speed manual (top speed was in 5th as 6 was really an overdrive) Larger exhaust 17" wheels Upgraded interior
I daily drove a 2000 zx3 for over 10 years. had wind up windows, 5spd, and not much else. Bought it in 2001 for $6,000.00 with 26,000 miles. I still have it at 246,000 miles with very little issues. Ive done cv axles twice, rear wheel bearings twice and timing belt twice. other than that normal wear and tear stuff. Ended up putting the SVT suspension kit on it because it was cheaper than parts store strut and shock replacements. put some 17" wheels and lower profile tires on it because I got bumped in a parking lot and it bent a wheel. Car still drives pretty damn good and is a lot of fun to throw into a cloverleaf.
I had an SVT eap focus and I can tell you its not only a "Tuned" engine, but a cosworth design with factory headers and way higher compression than the base model. Mine DID have Race seats as it came with the Recaros leathers. Anyway, glad to see an SVT Focus. Nice car as a daily.
My Son has an 02 with a JSC and he liked it so much, he got another focus...The RS. Setting up his SVT for SOW, such a great Car but yes, way underated....
The Mk1 focus RS is cool as hell. Idk if you guys in America ever got that but it's certainly a collectors car. This is the ST170 and they're mostly overlooked in the U.K.
Engine is Cosworth designed No BS had a 2003 SVT for 6 years. The intake runners work on a solenoid that switch between long and short runners , has variable valve timing 170 hp 145tq but it delivered it at a low rev then switched the intake manifold runners to act like a Integra GSR. 6 speed Getrag trans dual mass flywheel , upgraded struts , brakes over the base. It had an open front diff and was prone to understeer like any front drive. Had its little quirks , throw out bearings TSB factory for the clutch was an early issue, some leaky seals but a great little performance car. Just like him I had a ZX3 and they threw this out there w SVT badges I traded in and jumped on it in 2003. It was meant take on the Civic SI and for that year out handled it in tests. John Coletti from SVT wanted it Supercharged why the motor was built decent like he stated . Ford had a Supercherger bolt on I was so tempted .Enjoy that car it is a blast and you can develop driving skills
I was gonna check back after a few months to see if matt did a new review, but I forgot that he doesn't make reviews anymore, only these boring things. Dickheaded jokes aside, I do actually enjoy the one take series. The cars are interesting and the stories are awesome. Keep it up Matt!
+TheSmokingTire I know you get shafted with ad blocks but I recently got a Google Home that came with 6 months of RUclips Red. They say it still supports you guys but I just wanted to check to make sure before I extend it. I try to support your channel as much as I can.
Remember test driving one of these back in the day, dealer had a huge markup. Was blue flame (?) and rather peppy, nothing crazy, but fun is a perfect description.
I love the SVT Focus. I think it may be safe to say people who never knew of the SVT might find out about it when researching the new RS. I don't think he meant the values are going up. The kid is cool. I think Kal did just fine here. The car sounds amazing
I had an R53 Cooper JCW. It was amazing for 45,000 miles, and then things literally started falling off it. I would never, ever advise someone buy one of those used.
You scared me with that comment. I picked up an '06 R53 a couple of years ago. It currently has 60,000 miles and really hoping it doesn't fall apart like yours did. I do love the car, but do admit to being nervous about it falling apart.
I have a 2005 R53 mini and it has close to 145,000 miles and it has a pulley making 17lbs, exhaust and intake. I don't drive it easy either and I have not had any problems in the 35,000 miles I've owned it. stock tune and stock injectors, compression is still good too. you just need to take care of it.
I had a zx3 hatch/black. There was a huge aftermarket scene when they first came out; fun car. I'll be honest after about a couple years of owning my zx3..the engine shaked like a 10 year old car, and the materials of the car were horrible. He got a deal for 4500..svt is definitely the way to go. Great video, brought back some memories.
That's not the consensus I get. It is my understanding that the Mk 3's are the least desirable GTI's . However, that is why I asked the question. I don't know what he meant by the were doing horrible at the time.
I put 100k miles on a mk3 16v and have put 100k miles on a mk4 1.8t. the mk3 is far more fun and less fiddly to work on. the mk4 is a better lazy daily commuter car. two very different cars, the mk4 is far less gti.. good for commuting, very durable and has a good amount of shove
I looked and looked and looked for a good EAP 5 door version of one of these and struck out time and time again, which is the biggest reason I bought a Fiesta ST.
I also run 205/40/zr17s. Bridgestone blizzaks , for winter of coarse, &- use some matt black drag rims /with nittto 205/40/zr17 for summer and have a fun time outta mine . 04infraRED SvtF/ #
Give the guy a break. It's probably the most fun car he's ever had, and at 4500 it's actually a good buy if it's in good condition. People judge so hard on these videos it's insane.. He's a fellow car enthusiast, should take care of each other...
mornadu You are 100% correct.
I got mine for 2100 and added just few hundred bucks, man the car feels like a rallycar, the position of ebrake, the shifter, its just awesome. I loved it. Although not a fwd fan, but, this is different, the exhaust sounds awesome
That’s a dealer SVT right? That’s a good ass price
How many miles
It’s mainly people who don’t even own a car themselves I noticed lmao or have a license 😭😭
Former SVTF owner, I loved that car. It was such a little back road beast. We lovingly nicknamed it the Angry Sewing Machine. With the right tires, it could keep up with 350z's and RX-8s in the turns, and that's not hype.
Yeah, dude was a little excited to be on Smoking Tire, but good for him at his age and that budget.
ST170 owner of four years here.
Tyres & front pads is all it needs for greatness in the twisties. (Good Year Eagle F1A2 & EBC Redstuff)
Another former zx3 svtf owner. Great car. This guy got screwed with the price though. Bought mine with 100k mile in 2011 for 3,5 grand. With a short-throw shifter that getrag becomes one of the best stick shifts I ever drove.
That's a terrible nickname lmao
I used to have one as well. It was heavily modified the 6 speed is nice. They put down about 145whp stock and with his mods about 170. I had a quafie lsd in mine, best upgrade ever
That closing comment with Matt shutting him down, is how villains are created. The guy already said he wasn't good with public speaking, and it looked like he took it extra hard. He will be plotting his vengeance for years to come.
Unfortunately, I can't just let people say shit out of left field like that without reacting.
Hey matt, incase it wasn't clear I agree with you 100%. Honesty and a balanced opinion the reason I think we all enjoy the videos. I'm more or less poking fun. Cheers
LOL
i became a fan of Matt today because of this. He is real. aint gonna let the bullshit comments slide. lol.
There is a difference between not being good at public speaking and being misinformed.
His comment about the older focus generations is pretty accurate. Within the Focus community...finding a well kept original SVT for example is like finding a gem. The current ST wouldn't even be around without this car
Lots of them on ebay and craigslist. $2,000 for a runner $3,000 for a clean one. The ST170 existed before the SVT, Europe got the RS the US didn't. The current RS and ST owe nothing to the SVT.
Ford was producing high performance small cars with Lotus back in 60's with the escort and cortinas.
At least not in the states - that car needed to perform well here for Ford to consider bringing the ST over. Just wish that they were still selling the Mk4 here, and that we got the Mk2 turbo 5 cylinder.
Well atleast he is proud of his SVT.
$4500 is a good deal.
Winstan only worth about £1000 in the UK
not really these sell on ebay and craigslist for 2,000 - 3,000. The worst car to wear the SVT badge ever.
Hey, they made a 2/3's less of my car than this and it's not even in the registry lol.
Gregory Davis I think that distinction may belong to the SVT Contour. I remember working on them when they were in warranty. They'd come in with a 3 page list of recalls.
I bought mine in 2004, a 2003 left over, paid $13,995 brand new, its a coupe, loved the car then gave it to my daughter when I bought in my 2014 Evolution GSR. The focus 6spd manual is money, specially on the highway compare to evo 5sp, I'm doing 70mph in the evo 3200 rpm and the SVT is on 6spd around 2800rpm. Cool review Matt.
Yup this is my car and this is me lol
Kal Mack clean unit
John Bremo What does it weigh then bruh?
ABU-AZERA everyone including you who clicked this video lol
Oops move along then lol
Cool car man sounds sick!
The value and demand for New Edge V6 Mustangs are going up because the current GT350/R is so popular.
you definitely know your shit bro ;)
DaedalusZero hahahahah
DaedalusZero hahahahah.
Henryj lol I'm not sure YOU got H's sarcasm
lol there are a few video's of new edge v6's with built motors and boost making over 450whp. i personally don't give a rats ass but if you want something different with potential, there you go. in stock form they just suck in my opinion.
Wow! I'm a Focus guy and I was unaware the SVT sounded this good.
I had an exhaust dump right after the cat and it popped and banged like crazy. I miss that car so much.
I dig this vid. I've got a 2002 Focus SVT ZX3 with about 81k miles on it. this is totally the car I want to keep forever, and while I'm spending money on it to bring it back to looking stock, I think its worth it. Such a fun car to drive.
I'd also vote for a supercharger over turbo to keep the rev happy.
Allerum I couldn't agree more, keeping a linear power band would be great for this car
It would rob the engine from torque and make it rev heavier, so wtf are you saying?...
Have you ever owned a supercharged car? this is not the case. They rev just as fast, if not faster due to more power. They make more power at all RPMS when using a supercharger..
Ayyy Lmfao you got it backwards. Supercharging adds torque
Andrew Brinkman I understand. It adds torque to certain engines bottom end. But when done to a small engine, the rpms are heavier. Since the supercharger uses the crank as a power source...
Hugely underrated car. It was my first car straight out of high school, and they are fantastic. Certainly won't win any drag races but if you like a car that sounds great, and handles beautifully, you will love this car.
Saw one of these the other day that was torn to shit and was running on the spare tire. Felt really bad for it. Much respect for these cars.
Awesome SVT! I would say this a pretty good representation of the focus. I bought my 05 zx3 with 70k miles for 3300 and it has been well worth the money. Has been a fun car to learn to drive manual with and is a good stepping stone to momentum driving! My zx3 has almost identical mods and is a straight line turd but is really fun in the corners.Overall a great car to learn on. I finish college next year and look forward to grabbing a FiST after graduation!
Yup, definitely meant to say around 2700lbs don't know why I got confused with 2300. Looked that up at the end to make sure lol
Kal Mack hahaha
Kal Mack You have a very sweet SVT my friend. Sounds awesome!
Kal Mack hey could you comment mod list and the exhaust ?
Whats the exhaust system?
@@FilipKoksu borla catback
I own a Focus ST, a Focus SVT and picking up a fiesta ST tomorrow. I can say I love the rev happy nature of the SVT! Keep it N/A!
You at least have to admit that thing sounds pretty sweet.
YEApopcornBABY BC
My buddy had one in HS Dare i say going on 14 years ago... But i remeber his sounding very cool. They have a Dual stage intake manifold, Sounds sweet when it changes over.
I used to have an 03 EAP 3dr; loved to wind it out, it handled really well. These are loads different than the base focus. Tuned 2.0 with forged rods and higher compression with a 7,350 redline, variable cams, a getrag 6mt, much bigger all wheel disc brakes, full length factory-tuned stainless exhaust, 17x7 wheels w/ 215/45/17's, stiffer springs & dampers. It was a great car from the factory. A factory LSD would have improved it (torque steer and peg-legging it FWD style sucked). It competed mainly with the civic Si & mini cooper s of the day, not quite up to wrx srt-4 levels, except in handling. EAP added heated mirrors, full leather interior with heated recaros up front, and some nicer multi-spoke gunmetal wheels (which showed up on the next gen focus). Although a lot of this stuff is standard on cars today, in the early 2000's it was not.
Yep, completely agree. I owned an 03 EAP new and later an 04 with 100k miles. Great cars and one of the best performance values out there. Great reviews at the time and it was a better car than the GTI, Cooper, and Si. There was a ton of SVT effort put in this car at the time. Next bump up was to WRX and Evo - but that was a big price jump. The EAP Recaros were great as well. I currently own a Fiesta ST, and there are a ton of similarities between these cars. Matt is right about the steering though!
BTW, the Getrag 6MT was the same trans that was in the Cooper S. Also loved the SVT Contour. Need to get a clean one of those on a TST vid!
This was a weird video, there is tension in the air but I can see why. The guy is clearly over appreciating his Focus, I mean come on, the RS brings up the value of this one because people would rather have this?
I think you always get a tension in the video when owners say super rose-tinted things about their own cars and I have to really fight the urge to be a dick. When the owners and I can have a truly honest conversation about the car's benefits and shortcomings, you get the best videos. Edit - to clarify, I am used to this and in the real world, it is not a big deal and the owner was a perfect gentleman and a pleasure to spend a couple hours with, even if his nervousness got the best f him.
If you come to Quebec one of these days you're welcome to shit on my car all you want, could even arrange it on a track hehe. Altho I believe you were done with Miatas :D
Matt, never stroke a cocky guys ego.
William Levesque what tracks do you recommend? I only go to icar, still haven't been to autodrome st eustache yet but I plan on this summer
I am from Montreal as well and I track a 2005 STI. ICAR pisses on St Eustache. If you are into autocross though there are events at St eustache.
Thanks guys for the video, the Focus SVT is a bit underappreciated, I have a 2 door black 2002 Focus SVT with 58,000, I never imagined I would fall in love with a Focus, what a fast fun inexpensive car. Regrettably I will need to sell as I will be out of garage room
I used to have one :D ...... yeah it does sound good :D .......
Definitely underappreciated! Mine just rolled over 218k. Still has great compression, but rebuilding the head next year. Planning to turbo. Best car I've ever owned!
This kid actually said RS brings up the value to this 2003 svt. Oh boy
Vanneker well there WAS a few articles on that, and there have been more people getting these recently, but yeah prob not true
More like "Kid goes to dealer wanting an RS but sees the price and his mom and dad say no but check out this USED 14 YEAR OLD SVT we took in on trade...."
+Adam Haynes You're*
Kal Mack Yo dude don't listen to these disrespectful ass wipes, they're just sore because you actually have a car and they most probably don't.
Vanneker he's not wrong... this drew attention back to the SVTF. prices almost doubled on them
It's crazy how good this car sounds. I mean it really sounds good!
james hawkins thank you!
Kal Mack you're welcome and I'm glad you had that list. More of the people who's cars he drives need to do that. I'm saving up hoping I can get that Focus RS one day! One dealership by me have 5 of them! Good luck.
james hawkins work on your sarcasm delivery.. I am not buying it.
Kal Mack were you butt hurt at the end? it sounded like tears were streaming behind those massive aviators.
supercooled you should just shut the fuck up!
I think he has a semi valid point when he says the RS is bringing up the value of his car. I don't know if it's in particular just driving up the SVT Focus market, but I definitely think hot hatches are becoming popular again. Maybe they'll rise in value. Who knows.
Strange coincidence, I drove down to Venice Feb 4th 2017 to pick up a windshield for my Atom from the Bay Area, and decide to check out the beach and as I was driving down the side street I saw you talking with a female neighbor Sunday morning.
You live on the beach, that is wicked!!! Congrats on doing what you love and making it!
Proud owner of 2 Focus SVT's! Guys, they are great cars. Super comfortable and easy to drive, and these cars can take forced induction on stock motor. (Around 7-9 psi)
Hayden Sackey You got that right. I love my 04 SVT with the EAP.
I drove a 4 door 2004 SVT Focus from Ontario, CA to Albuquerque, NM and had a blast! What a fun little car. I used to bash these cars during my DC2 Integra days, but this Focus is what opened my Honda heart up to buying my 2015 Focus ST!
awkkkkkkwardddddddd. Matt misunderstood what the guy was trying to say at the end.
Yea, haha - I felt bad for the kid. He was obviously in love with his car, and that is cool. Matt obviously has driven and owns basically whatever he wants so this is nothing to him. But that is that dude's favorite car in the world because it's his.
Reading the comments suck - people need to try spending more time encouraging younger generations rather than roasting them for not having the resources to buy the halo cars that everyone wants.
I have a loaded 2016 Focus ST, and am looking at buying an SVT Focus to make into a little autox / track beater so I don't abuse my daily.
This SVT was rad back in the day. My friend had one and I lusted over it. The sound and the wheels + hatch style was MEAN. :D
Those weigh in at about 2700lbs.
Yeah, drunk as fuck thinking 2300... That's Miata and EG Civic territory haha.
He's very enthusiastic about his car. I can appreciate that. It's a much cooler car that what I had at his age. We need guys like him. While it might grate the nerves of some of the more seasoned car guys when specs seem out of whack, it's small potatoes. Without this generation getting in to cars, we could very well see the car scene begin to die. Fewer and fewer young folks are driving enthusiasts.
You on crack?? the car scene has never been bigger with what used to be top of the range motors now being cheap as chips. The car scene will never die, unless electric cars take over like i robot lol
That's promising to hear. That's not the case from where I am from. The car scene here is not what it used to be.
Eg Civics weigh even less! Miss my 2100 lb 94 CX. :/
Lol dude got butt hurt with Matt, at the end of the video
Anthony Rodriguez lmao i noticed that. nice pic ;)
J Biz lol hilarious. Great looking STI, you got there man!
Anthony Rodriguez Check mine!
halo3sn1p3r hey cool car man! Love that color. Any plans for it?
Already got manley pistons, manley connecting rods and acl race bearings. Just waiting to throw on a bigger turbo along with fuel upgrades and AEM water/meth
I loved this video especially when he saids he bought the car for $4,500 making minimum wage. I always like seeing people with cheap fun enthusiasts cars (New edge GTs, Miatas, WRXs, Srt 4s, cobalt and Impala SS’). Just goes to show you don’t need to make bank to have fun!!
I miss my SVT Focus. Had a C1 Prochager on it. Stupied fun.
Nirvash the irony of you misspelling stupid is hilarious. no offence dude 😂
So I did not check my spelling, thanks for the heads up buddy. Glad I can make you day by telling me this. Enjoy the rest of your day.
Martin King you spelled offense wrong, you idiot.
After the Kool Aid comment it looked like he wanted to burn the t-shirt!!!
Got to test drive a stock one of these today. Had to walk away from it sadly... But honestly, this is easily one of the top 5 best handling cars I've ever got to drive in my life! Never going to forget that experience. 😁
I love how this sounds. Never been a fan of the SVT Focus. But this sounds good. 👌
Glad Matt was able drive a pretty clean example and enjoy it! If anyone is interested in a really cheap and fun hatch, put this one on your test-drive list. It has shortcomings of course (what car doesn't?) but for the price you can get these things for nowadays (3-4k for a decently clean example), it's a lot of fun for the money!
If you're interested in my opinions as a former SVTf owner (I drive a MK7 GTI now....TORQUE!)
Pros:
-Cheap to own and repair (some of the parts are SVT specific and are a bit costly but most parts are generic ford stuff)
-Great fun on the twisties
-Fun, high revving engine with a pretty slick 6 speed that's fun to row through
-Practical, especially as a 5-door
Cons:
-Not that reliable (timing belts!!!) In 2.5 years of ownership, the car left me stranded on the side of the road twice
-Interior is cheap early 2000's ford crap, except the recaro seats (comes with the euro apperance package) which are surprisingly good!
-The tuner crowd always want to "race you" at every stop light
-Had plastic rattles over every bump (at least in my car!)
I owned a SVT ZX3 W/EAP, in all honestly the car only comes alive above 4K as the IMRC (which I replaced) opens above 3K. There is a woeful lack of torque ( see above) You are spot on about the timing belt, the real issue are the T belt tensioner & Idler pulley, always do a timing kit as if you lose a belt you will bend valves. T-belt and tensioner/idler are the same as other zetecs.
Part stores will get you the wrong parts all the time (pass side eng mount, Brakes, etc) are different than a non SVT.
Yes the car handles very well, but overall the Mazda 3 2.3S (or 2.5) gives you a better driving feel.
The clutch in the ZX3 and the pedal feel is great, the cable actuated shifter is good but it can be real problematic, the gear ratios are too close.
I agree on the plastics, they warp or break, the sunroof jams, the window regulators are shit, shift and e brake boots shrink to the point where they pop out. Door panel inserts come unglued. Then you have electrical issues...
As far as values, I'll be 100% honest my car was 100% stock and clean I was second owner, clean car fax. I sorted every problem before I even listed it, I sold it with fresh tires and brakes, I had no paint fade and about 100K mi it was hard to sell. I had it on CL, Autotrader, Car Gurus for months I got almost 3K, I felt it should have been worth 4.5K in the end I just wanted it gone before something else broke.
Screamin' Yellow SVTF Awesome little Focus. Quick, good on gas and at 176,000 miles, my 2004 ZX5 with the EAP runs, shifts and handles fantastic. Very under rated vehicle but their value is increasing.
I agree with him, the SVT focus is definitely a car that needs to stay naturally aspirated. The 6 speed tight gearing and NA engine makes a really fun rev happy car to drive. all gears after 3rd become really tight. The turn radius does kinda suck haha but I love my SVT, and I've owned a bunch of Hondas over 200whp. The only real shame is that there isn't enough people out there who would tear this thing apart and rebuild them on ITBs, stand alones, etc. like people do with Hondas.
for stock it's a nibble hot hatch at a steal of a deal =)
I owned one, wouldn't buy another. The Civic SI for few bucks more will be Honda reliable, and you can get into a Mazda 3 2.3 for roughly the same money as an SVTF.
different strokes for different folks.
New plans for my SVT will be a k20 swap.. lol guess i do want to build another honda, but not drive one :P
sounds like a crazy idea but its doable
To get an idea of how tight the transmission is - 6th gear 70mph will give you 3k rpm.
SVT. O4. I've still got mine. Canyon carver. One of the best hatches Ford ever put out. Thing is really good at speed in corners. It has a quicker ratio steering box than the base model focus, 4 wheel discs, 6 speed Getrag, lower firmer suspension than the base model. That engine, the 2 litre zetech, was specked by Cosworth, and is sought after by the racetrack guys. Huge potential that no one expects.
Go turbo/ get 300hp. Scary fun.
Wow this is such a throwback hahah this used to be THEE hot hatch
great video matt! it must be hard being friendly with everyone while respecting their cars. kal good car man, but have fun out there. no car is perfect and taking constructive criticism from a guy who drives cars for a living is nothing to be defensive about. gl on your build!
MistaKimsta thanks buddy
MistaKimsta Sounded great Kal, especially in the tunnel.
I'm LITERALLY about to pick up some sumitomo tires for my 88 escort gt. lol. Also the foucus SVT is one of the best fwd cars out there.
Dude sick '88 EGT. My 3rd car was an '88.5 model. If you still have it, keep it.
Those Escort GTs were fun cars in their day.
A moment of silence for the car enthusiast in Cali who are suppressed by emissions laws
TheReal NateDogg Oppressed is more like it
TheReal NateDogg no one follows that emissions bullshit out here. It’s only every other year. 2004 or new they just look to see if the check engine light is on and look at the intake and exhaust no actual computer reading of the emissions. There’s plenty of 50 state legal intake systems. It’s easy to pass but I have friends that have to swap their pipes every time.
I like it, and it sounds great. Great buy.
Jesus so much hate on this thing for no reason. Yes the owner seemed nervous and maybe a bit misinformed about areas of his car- or maybe even an enthusiast in the making. Everyone starts somewhere. Matt, good on you for correcting what you could and painting an accurate picture of a nice little Fuckus
Idk why, but when Matt asked him how much power he was making, I expected this guy to say, "Around 250-270."
Jordan Ridgeway yes same lol
185 whp is about 250 at the crank...
@@O2TG lol what?? power loss is about 15%............ 185whp would be 215 crank , ish
@@christopherrogers8316 Cool man I just threw a number out. It's actually 212.75 crank @ 15%.
I thought these we rated at 170hp new. (crank)
in europe its called a ford focus ST170. you can buy them really cheap for 1500€ (in the netherlands) . those cars where known to have good handling, and a good balanced chassis. good choice :)
People in u.s. dont understand this car it was one of best hot hatch of time
This guy reminds me of Ed Bassmaster's "would you look at that?" videos lmfao
Absolutely loved my ZX3 I had, wasn't a SVT but still loved the Hell out that car. Still miss it.
God damn that car sounds good
I've had mine for 6 months, bone stock. I didn't really jive with it at first, but I fell in love with it. I agree with Matt, don't boost.
That moment @8:58 when his dreams get CrUsHed by Matt when he doesn't buy into the "Prominent Car" comment LoLoL!
They're not bad little cars. If you can get it cheap and it works and brings a smile to your face. Go for it.
2300lbs yea rite!
Yeah, more like 2700lbs
106 GTI add another 100lbs to that
rangerousdave That's same car as our "Focus ST 170 5D" 1239kg/2732lbs
16ValveVtec yea you are correct. That model weights just over 2750lbs. At the time I drove a zx2 which is a 2 door escort with almost the exact same focus svt motor (vct only on one end, not both intake/exhaust) and that car weighted 2500lbs. I really wish people were accurate with numbers. Its not hard.
Thank you (everyone) on the weight, I knew damn well it wasn't 2300 lbs. Looked it up, 2750, 450 lbs on that much power is a huge difference.. My old Z car was close to 2300-2400 and it was tinny AF, I knew this had to weigh much more.
I bought a 2002 SVTF (3-door) and loved that little car. Definitely a momentum car. Not enough power but handling was superior. I kept mine showroom stock. I took it to Laguna Seca and turned sub 2 minute laps (1 min. 59 sec.) also tracked it at Buttonwillow, Willow Springs and Streets of Willow Springs. Couldn't pass anybody, but hung on the rear bumper of much more powerful cars. Usually got a wave by and they'd have to brake so I could get past.
Cosworth tuned engine from the factory.
Indépendant rear suspension
Bigger discs on all corners.
6-speed manual (top speed was in 5th as 6 was really an overdrive)
Larger exhaust
17" wheels
Upgraded interior
currently looking for one after this vid
I daily drove a 2000 zx3 for over 10 years. had wind up windows, 5spd, and not much else. Bought it in 2001 for $6,000.00 with 26,000 miles. I still have it at 246,000 miles with very little issues. Ive done cv axles twice, rear wheel bearings twice and timing belt twice. other than that normal wear and tear stuff. Ended up putting the SVT suspension kit on it because it was cheaper than parts store strut and shock replacements. put some 17" wheels and lower profile tires on it because I got bumped in a parking lot and it bent a wheel. Car still drives pretty damn good and is a lot of fun to throw into a cloverleaf.
As a former SVT Focus owner this was hard to watch. That kid makes us look bad. Sorry Matt, we aren't all this way!
PLindsey725 ya he dont know shit about his car lol
I had an SVT eap focus and I can tell you its not only a "Tuned" engine, but a cosworth design with factory headers and way higher compression than the base model. Mine DID have Race seats as it came with the Recaros leathers. Anyway, glad to see an SVT Focus. Nice car as a daily.
Dude looks and talks like he's stressed the fuck out.
Harley Alexander most people do on one take lol
This guy is above and beyond. Matt was even "off" around him, being overly nice IMO.
My Son has an 02 with a JSC and he liked it so much, he got another focus...The RS. Setting up his SVT for SOW, such a great Car but yes, way underated....
damn it sounds pretty nice!
In respect to the other cars Ford was putting out at this time this car was amazing same for the Mondeo SVT and Terminator.
I've got the contour/mondeo svt. Pretty rare to see
Car sounds solid👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Zach Jones ayyyy thanks
I like how Matt delicately balances praising this kid's car, and taking the snot out of him here and there.
love svt focus ........
The Mk1 focus RS is cool as hell. Idk if you guys in America ever got that but it's certainly a collectors car. This is the ST170 and they're mostly overlooked in the U.K.
I don't get the stress and tension the comments are finding but whatever.
*There is none.*
Engine is Cosworth designed No BS had a 2003 SVT for 6 years. The intake runners work on a solenoid that switch between long and short runners , has variable valve timing 170 hp 145tq but it delivered it at a low rev then switched the intake manifold runners to act like a Integra GSR. 6 speed Getrag trans dual mass flywheel , upgraded struts , brakes over the base. It had an open front diff and was prone to understeer like any front drive. Had its little quirks , throw out bearings TSB factory for the clutch was an early issue, some leaky seals but a great little performance car. Just like him I had a ZX3 and they threw this out there w SVT badges I traded in and jumped on it in 2003. It was meant take on the Civic SI and for that year out handled it in tests. John Coletti from SVT wanted it Supercharged why the motor was built decent like he stated . Ford had a Supercherger bolt on I was so tempted .Enjoy that car it is a blast and you can develop driving skills
I had an 02 svt focus, it was fun 6spd getrag tranny, tight steering , the gas mileage sucked, but a fun car at the right price, 3k and under
What mileage did you normally get? I was impressed with mine. I normally got between 30-34
TWFodor like 20
I got 28 avg with modest driving, 34mpg on highway trips. Drive hard and your mpg will drop
27mpg average combined cycle. Canyon runs will do 21-22mpg
I was gonna check back after a few months to see if matt did a new review, but I forgot that he doesn't make reviews anymore, only these boring things.
Dickheaded jokes aside, I do actually enjoy the one take series. The cars are interesting and the stories are awesome. Keep it up Matt!
+TheSmokingTire I know you get shafted with ad blocks but I recently got a Google Home that came with 6 months of RUclips Red. They say it still supports you guys but I just wanted to check to make sure before I extend it. I try to support your channel as much as I can.
Stig Msr yes red is good!
Good to know. Thanks!
I had an SVT Focus with a Jackson SC. Still miss it after 10 years.
In England they are called the ST170 and they are only worth around £600-£1200 but he paid £3606.93! That's so expensive!
Luke Mortell less common over here in north america hense the price difference
We need to buy them and export them :)
***** The Focus SVT and the ST170 are exactly the same car with different bumpers front & rear. Parts are interchangeable
Aaron Lean how can you say that everyone who brought an svt new in the us chose a better spec than everyone who brought a new st170 in the UK?
Remember test driving one of these back in the day, dealer had a huge markup. Was blue flame (?) and rather peppy, nothing crazy, but fun is a perfect description.
He's definitely drinking the Kool-Aid.
I had an 03 ZX5 SVT and now have Fiesta ST. The Fiesta is pretty much the next step from the SVTF...both are great cars
Wow keeping this guy honest was a little rough
I love the SVT Focus. I think it may be safe to say people who never knew of the SVT might find out about it when researching the new RS. I don't think he meant the values are going up. The kid is cool. I think Kal did just fine here. The car sounds amazing
7:50 uhh someone is forgetting the R53 Mini Cooper s, it's very similar to the other hot hatches of the time.
I had an R53 Cooper JCW. It was amazing for 45,000 miles, and then things literally started falling off it. I would never, ever advise someone buy one of those used.
Sounds like my old 89 Yugo GVL.(long gone) Never made it to 50,000 miles. Never ,NEVER buy a Yugo.
Sounds like my old 89 Yugo GVL.(long gone) Never made it to 50,000 miles. Never ,NEVER buy a Yugo.
You scared me with that comment. I picked up an '06 R53 a couple of years ago. It currently has 60,000 miles and really hoping it doesn't fall apart like yours did. I do love the car, but do admit to being nervous about it falling apart.
I have a 2005 R53 mini and it has close to 145,000 miles and it has a pulley making 17lbs, exhaust and intake. I don't drive it easy either and I have not had any problems in the 35,000 miles I've owned it. stock tune and stock injectors, compression is still good too. you just need to take care of it.
I had a zx3 hatch/black. There was a huge aftermarket scene when they first came out; fun car. I'll be honest after about a couple years of owning my zx3..the engine shaked like a 10 year old car, and the materials of the car were horrible. He got a deal for 4500..svt is definitely the way to go. Great video, brought back some memories.
Haha lol awkward ending u can tell he was a bit pist off
Matt, you deserve a Nobel piece prize.
What does he mean the GTI was doing horrible at the time?
MK4s are probably the least desirable GTIs.
That's not the consensus I get. It is my understanding that the Mk 3's are the least desirable GTI's . However, that is why I asked the question. I don't know what he meant by the were doing horrible at the time.
Bart2278 I'd much rather have my Mk3 than a Mk4
Jakob Kerr ok thank you
I put 100k miles on a mk3 16v and have put 100k miles on a mk4 1.8t.
the mk3 is far more fun and less fiddly to work on. the mk4 is a better lazy daily commuter car.
two very different cars, the mk4 is far less gti.. good for commuting, very durable and has a good amount of shove
I looked and looked and looked for a good EAP 5 door version of one of these and struck out time and time again, which is the biggest reason I bought a Fiesta ST.
Ford also made a RS in this generation I don't know if you guys got them in the USA though
Nope. Sadly we did not. First RS we got is the current one.
Nice car! I still love my daily driver 02 SVT Focus, I've got my Blizzaks on now so no fun until the Spring lol.
I tried the all season tires in 04 but I was sliding off the road in the snow so I got new wheels and winter tires and love them.
I also run 205/40/zr17s. Bridgestone blizzaks , for winter of coarse, &- use some matt black drag rims /with nittto 205/40/zr17 for summer and have a fun time outta mine . 04infraRED SvtF/ #
This guy looks like a George Michael, impersonator.
There is the EAP focus SVT which comes with recaro seats and different wheels but I do love my SVT focus and I'm glad you guys reviewed one :)
Haha he's such a fan boy, I'd be the same way too
These cars are superb! All motor they do 300+ hp N/A
Lmao that ending was awkward and hilarious
I was looking at buying a svt but this video basically destroyed that lol. Thanks, Matt!
Ugly as sin but that sound is fantastic.
PutOnAFlannel Nothing ugly about it. Now a bug eyed WRX? We'll sure.
In the back a little weird but disagree for the front end. Aged well for a 2000s car
My friend bought one at an auction for $300! Hes modding it right now and its awesome.
Never stroke a cocky mans ego.
What a splendid car and a delightful owner. Great vid.
Should of let the owner of the car talk instead of continually interrupting him. I enjoyed the car but not the cockiness of the reviewer this time.
Took the wind right out of his sales at the end.