The difference in enjoyment on your face when you drive the RS tells us that the RS holds a special place in your ❤️ an look forward to seeing more of the RS on the channel an mods to come 👍🏻😘
Mate, I seriously love your videos. Absolutely zero BS, and an honest and non-biased opinions. You’ve seriously sold me on the Cupra 300 now too! Keep them coming buddy.
I thought he was trying to sell us on the RS :) I've got a focus ST which I've had from new (2009) and its driven daily (170k miles on the clock now). Simply put its the best car I've had and it doesn't have the torque steer issues of the RS due to it only having 220bhp. Its more than enough grunt for our roads in the UK though...
The RS and ST have one of the best sounding engines ever put in a hot hatch, It was the reason I purchased a new ST3 way back in 2006,still love them. Thanks for the video 👍
Gary , that's a great review of your two drives , i think you pretty much said the same things as i am thinking because along with my RS i recently bought an A35 . Unfortunately for me though i can't keep both cars and have decided to let the RS go after 7 years ownership . But i will say this , i took the RS out today after 2 weeks in the merc , and i agree with you it's not really a daily car but when i got in it today , i thought oh yes this is me this is the affordable toy to have in the garage . Am i going to miss it ? You bet i am but in the words of Arnie Shwartz , ' i'll be back ' .
I know, that’s very sad you’re letting it go 😥 But at least you’ve had the pleasure of owning it. Enjoy the Mercedes, my friend has one and there wasn’t much in it between that and the Cupra!
The sense of occasion is what its all about. Every time i even start mine gives me a buzz. Running close to 400 bhp and its got plenty if not to much power unless youre on a bypass... great vid
Lol, seeing your face driving the RS and having fun is putting a smile on my face. I miss my RS, but have a Fiesta ST mk8 now and driving it puts the same smile on my face.
@@CarFocused my Fiesta ticks exactly the same box as your Cupar does, perfect for daily driving and fun too, quick enough to enjoy. I’d love an RS mk2 but can’t quite afford one at the moment, but that is the goal soon hopefully. Look forward to your dyno run video 😉
Thanks for a really enjoyable video! I had a 2018 Cupra 300, also in Mystery Blue but with a manual box and loved it. I really missed it when it went and there was very little that could keep up with it on the road and overtaking was so easy and always felt safe. Replaced the the new shape Leon FR Sport 150 in September which is fine as daily and commuting in traffic but not exciting though looks great. Found myself longing for some more power so have recently bought a Mk 7.5 Golf R 3 door manual. Probably only use it once a week but it feels very special when I do and the 4WD was great when we had lots of snow last month. 👍
The RS still brings the bigger grin but it's difficult to compare it to a daily driver which you also love and luckily your in a position to own both so enjoy them 😊
Hello Gary great vid as usual you got it spot on about the feeling both cars give you. Cupra is a great daily and all rounder it does everything well and with feedback too. The RS is an event every time you look at it, start it, hear it and that’s even before you drive it. Never sell it mate! 👍🏻
I had a stage 2 320 bhp st few years back now, spent thousands on it in upgrades but what a good car it became when I’d done. Wish I’d never got rid now, the noise them 5pot engines make with the rite exhaust on is special.
@@CarFocused yeah cheap enough these days but they are rough around the edges now. As for the mpg ….aye , my average was 23 mpg and that was not flooring it, take it on a spirited run in the sticks and bye bye fuel hello shell garage again…15 mpg 😫😆
It's the theatre that's makes the RS, you need noise and engagement to have fun, newer cars tend to lack this. VAG platform cars are clinical and effective, I respect them but don't warm to them.
I have both a stage 1 Golf 7.5R and a GR Yaris for same reason as you explain. Ones a great daily, the other outright fun driving experience and an occasion every time you chuck it thru a wet roundabout.
I’m a US viewer where the MK2 RS and Cupra 300 don’t exist. But I do own a MK7 GTI with a 300hp tune as my daily. With that power and similar weight, same chassis, same engine, same transmission, FWD, etc. In theory it’s pretty much the same as the Cupra 300 (except different body, brand, and tires equipped) and I’m happy to see that a Cupra 300 rivals the stock MK2 RS. Heck when I did an acceleration 0-60mph (0-100kmh) test in my car it was the exact same number as the stock MK2 RS being 5.7 sec (6.1 sec) so I’m happy my car is quite similar to the RS in many ways (except for the things I’ve mentioned above as well as looks, 5 cylinder engine, and steering knuckles) Though on a side note despite having the right amount of acceleration and handling, there’s something that my car or any other couldn’t replicate what the MK2 RS has. Which is why it still remains as one of my dream cars (that’s illegal to import)
Another trip down memory lane for me...watch for the steering wheel blue stitching fraying where you hold onto the wheel tightly pushing on....the R.H. side came away on mine over a 3 year period where my right hand was gripping the wheel so tightly !!!....Damp / drying fast A roads can be fun with the Quaife diff. suddenly gripping up...when you don't expect....all good fun and keeps you on your toes..Great fun and immensely rewarding to drive on fast sweeping A/B roads...one of my favourite local roads which i used a lot with it was the B4525 Northampton to Banbury ..pity you can't post a picture on comments...
@@CarFocused Worth looking out if you are up this way sometime..off the A43 just past Silverstone exists. Used it daily for awhile as tripping over to Gaydon for a contract 👍
Great video. 2 fantastic hatchbacks. I’ve got a 290 cupra in mystery blue, it ticks every box what a car out of the tin. Although I’d never own a mk2 focus RS, I can always appreciate them. Great hatch back, and will never depreciate. You could enjoy that car for another 10 years and not loose a penny. Great pair 😎
Both great cars,and I like your colour choice on the Cupra ! I got mine stage 1 tuned , although as you say , it's fast enough stock . I normally drive mine in Individual setting using sport as engine choice/mode on settings , I find Cupra mode a bit loud.
I’ve got a 2016 cupra and the tone changes in the cupra mode it’s like a total different car becomes very aggressive mine is 600bhp 4 wheel drive cupra mode is way loud tho on the motorway it sure lets people know your coming up fast tho
You can see straight away when you started driving the rs the difference in the grin factor!…great cars these mk2’s I’m taking mine out this evening for a run the sun is shining here
I now have the 540i xDrive with its famous B58, amazing performance however I miss my Cupra 290 sound 😭 with its resonator delete the DSG shift sounds just insanely satisfying
You'd be absolutely mad choosing a seat cupra over a Focus RS! German comfortable dull daily as you say and ford savage beast that puts a smile on your face. Basically a driver's car Vs a typical civilised car
I get what people say about the RS being more of an 'experience' but don't underestimate that Cupra. Once that 300 is rolling it can put a smile on your face. It just doesn't let up and the 'parp' it makes when you change gear under heavy acceleration is quite addictive. For looks, performance, equipment levels, running costs...I am not sure it can be beaten. Plus, there aren't many on the road which I loved when driving my 290 👍
Just got me an Focus RS MK3. Thank you for the video's about that one. The Mk2 is really speacial, but indeed very old inside. I do like the more modern style of the MK3. Can you make a video of the dyno of the mk2?
One of my biggest regrets is not buying the MK2 RS when I had the chance back in 2010. I bought a new ST3 from the Ford dealer and they had one of these in the showroom. I could of had it for £23k brand new.
I think a lot of us thought the same. But back then 23k was still quite a bit of money. It is crazy though as that’s what I paid for mine 4 years ago!🫤
Excellent comparision video, mate. I own a Cupra Ateca 310 DSG, which my wife dailys, and I daily the Cupra Leon 290 DSG. You're welcome to do a review of the Ateca sometime. Love the RS mate, an absolute icon. I'm considering trading in the Cupra Leon for a GR Yaris in the near future.
I would imagine the RS has waaay more torque, giving so much shove in the mid range probably masks how much power it really has at the top. The cupra has a flay torque curve and is very strong at the top, the dsg box will make up alot of time in a straight line. Just fun factor of a manual though, especially when most manufacturers are moving to auto boxes only now is the time to enjoy a manual
@@CarFocused couldn't agree more, coming from a 400bhp 340i auto I decided to go for a focus st (stage 1 where it will stay) for driving enjoyment. It's still alot slower than the 340i but doesn't matter, the ST is fantastic all rounder and more fun, handles better and rowing through gears when your in the mood is amazing. Eventually we will all be in electric cars with no gears or noise so I'm enjoying a more analogue car while I can
@@CarFocused it should be around 260 bhp and 300 lbs ft according to revo, so should be noticeably quicker than a gti on the move.. it even uses the same dq381 gearbox as the later R/S3/ GTI cars
Really nice video! I am thinking of buying a Seat Leon Cupra 300 but I haven't decided if I should go with the ST version with 4WD or the Hatchback version with FWD. What do you think? Have you ever had the opportunity to drive the 4WD version? I really like the looks of the hatchback version
I had a look at an ST but didn’t actually drive it. We already have an estate in the household so didn’t really think another was needed so I went for the hatch. But I can see the ST being a pretty decent all rounder with practical boot space and plenty of grip. Deffo a sound option 👌🏻
I have a 2019 cupra estate which has the 4 wheel drive and dsg and I love it , it’s such a sleeper being a estate folk have no idea . I had a Honda civic type r fk2 before and the cupra would mince it but both are great cars
You love your LC300 almost as much as I love mine. The RS sounds cool. I think the only thing close to that new these days is probably an RS3. I bet that will be the last 5 cylinder RS3 as well... although, I do wonder if internal combustion engined cars will actually not dissappear like we fear.
Focus RS is a brilliant car and i think you should have bought a Golf R instead of the Seat Cupra basically same car but i think the Golf would have had less issues either that or an AMG GLA 45
You have some very nice toys. What stops me from pulling a trigger on a nice car is the stress and often the associated finance deal. I'm anxious over someone inadvertently dinking it in a supermarket car park, some Scallywag keying it, the depreciation, a dreaded dash light often means a big bill etc. Did any these things factor in your decision making when buying your cars?
Currently have a fiesta mk8 stage 1 250 bhp. Next car will either be cupra 300, hyundai i30n or civic type r. Not sure which one to go for😮 22k cash budget.
The Cupra would be faster, purely because of the DSG. I've got the same engine (EA888) in a Skoda Superb as it's a great unit, and rapid. Not as fun as the RS though
Had a Cupra and got rid for a GR Yaris but never get rid of my UG and never will no matter what I’m offered lol, couldn’t get on with the Cupra and great day it went 👍
@@CarFocused My 10 plate at 9300 miles is mint . No more aftermarket crap just back to standard now. Cupra was great bud but I got a Seb Loeb GR and is awesome
Nice video! On another note which hothatches would you suggest to buy? Cupra 300 Focus ST BMW 128ti Here in Greece the roads are mediocre at best and the price between these 3 cars are in the range of 1 to 4k €
For me personally I would say the Cupra 300 because that’s the one I chose, and it’s actually cheaper than the other two also, with better performance 👍🏻
I think I’d go DSG mate in all honesty. Day to day it’s just so much easier and using the paddles in manual mode is pretty fun. Not as engaging as manual but it’s not a bad compromise. In traffic DSG is another level 😂👌🏻
@@mudguardrider8211 if they are prone to failing then it makes me wonder how many people are actually using the clutch properly. When I let my cousin drive my manual car, he started to burn the clutch. He was trying to drive it like he stole it. Dumping the clutch is also bad too so it’s no wonder clutches fail in car videos when dragging/racing it.
Hi, I have dipped in and out of your videos over a while now, it seems as though we probably developed our appreciation of cars over the same time period. I have a GR Yaris, and if you haven't tried one, then I recommend it. It feels like a real hot hatch throwback. Maybe you could do a short review using mine if you haven't got hold of one already?
Raw wins every time if your a petrol head I daily a mk2 fiesta zvh turbo No radio No creature comforts It's horrendous on our roads shakes ya teeth out But this all goes out the window when you floor it 😂 And watching you smile driving the focus just shows ☺️
I am waiting to go and get my cupra 4drive st the estate version of the golf r which inlove as a underrated family car with a stage 3 it will be almost unbeatable by most cars
To keep boost up to redline there should be a hybrid turbo. Ye it’s a lot of £££, but i think this is the best for the car in terms of OEM+ upgrades and makes it really quick even for today’s standards
Would be nice to keep that power band nice and strong all the way to the top, but not sure I’d be too popular at home if I start going down that slippery slope haha
Hi mate,I know it’s not relevant to this vid but hoping you can help. In one of your older vids you had some mud flaps you were fitting or going to fit,I remember you were saying they were much better quality and fitment than the rally flapz mud flaps. You wouldn’t happen to remember what they were by any chance would ya mate?
The RS is a bit boy racer like as well as the Honda CIVIC TYPE R (attention seeking) with bits stuck on the outside like Batman's car. A faster hatch that would beat the RS and the Cupra is the Audi S3 manual /dsg. The Cupra and the vag group 2 litre petrol engines do have a weakness as the water pump WILL fail and leak costing hundreds to fix. Most hot hatches have known issues that often do happen after 5 years old.
Very good comparison there. I had a Focus mk2 ST from new. 5 door in blue. Very basic, with dual climate control, Sony radio, and light/rain sensors. Then, some years later I added some aftermarket parts to it. Suspension (H&R-Bilstein), engine tuning (Dreamscience), engine parts like Airtec intercooler, Focus RS intake, Mongoose dp and decat, Focus RS clutch, Quaife diff, Ferodo brake pads and fluid.... It was definitely fun to drive. But the car was defined mainly by it´s engine. For the good and the bad. Inmense sound, inmense torque, good engine feel. But it was too nose heavy, and very thirsty. Also the turning circle is horrendous. And the interior image, seating position, and materials aren´t something to talk about. Finally I sold it in 2018 because I fancied a change and wanted something more rounded and modern. Guess what, I bought a brand new Leon Cupra 300 dsg in blue just like yours. With some toys like heated bucket seats, navy, acc, rear view camera. And as much as I have (just like you) a place in my heart for that great tuned Focus that I had, I know the Cupra is better in every single department, minus engine sound 😄. Greetings from Spain.
@@CarFocused Totally understandable. I had the opportunity to drive a standard mk2 RS when I still had the tuned ST, and it was definitely an event, even in standard form. The aggressive aesthetics and the improved handling definitely made it a special car. I also was in the passenger seat of a JWR tuned one, and that felt VERY powerful. I was debating with myself about doing the jump from the ST to the RS. But at the time the 2nd hand market was already climbing in price very fast. And that was the final point that made me decide to buy something new and more rounded. Also I don't want two cars, so I'm better now with a more rounded option. Great work with your videos. 👍
@@CarFocused i bought the seat leon cupra r st(I have two kids)in January, it’s basically the best car that I’ve driven. It makes me smile every time. Wenn the warranty passes I’m doing stage 1 tunning, nothing crazy, 50 ps and 90 nm more. Best of luck, you got a subscriber in me.
@@CarFocused I bought it 1 year old, it came without the ABT Tunning, but in Germany that costs 2500 euros and normal stage 1 tunning from nice shop cost around 600 euros. And yeah only 700 made, in Germany only 350 😁. I have 1 year warranty and afterwords I’m doing the stage 1. but as you know the car is a beast without the Tune :)))
Great comparison. I just don't understand why you've got two relatively boring FWD grocery-getters. Get yourself a proper sportscar for weekends and fun drives and you'll never look back.
Авто/Мото
The difference in enjoyment on your face when you drive the RS tells us that the RS holds a special place in your ❤️ an look forward to seeing more of the RS on the channel an mods to come 👍🏻😘
Thanks for watching 😃
Mate, I seriously love your videos. Absolutely zero BS, and an honest and non-biased opinions. You’ve seriously sold me on the Cupra 300 now too! Keep them coming buddy.
Thank you - appreciate that 😊
Cupra is all the car you ever need, but if you want true comfort get a audi or bmw benz
I thought he was trying to sell us on the RS :)
I've got a focus ST which I've had from new (2009) and its driven daily (170k miles on the clock now). Simply put its the best car I've had and it doesn't have the torque steer issues of the RS due to it only having 220bhp. Its more than enough grunt for our roads in the UK though...
@@stones4879 I actually had a standard Mk2 ST alongside my RS before I bought the Cupra 😊
The RS and ST have one of the best sounding engines ever put in a hot hatch,
It was the reason I purchased a new ST3 way back in 2006,still love them. Thanks for the video 👍
👌🏻👌🏻
Gary , that's a great review of your two drives , i think you pretty much said the same things as i am thinking because along with my RS i recently bought an A35 . Unfortunately for me though i can't keep both cars and have decided to let the RS go after 7 years ownership . But i will say this , i took the RS out today after 2 weeks in the merc , and i agree with you it's not really a daily car but when i got in it today , i thought oh yes this is me this is the affordable toy to have in the garage . Am i going to miss it ? You bet i am but in the words of Arnie Shwartz , ' i'll be back ' .
I know, that’s very sad you’re letting it go 😥 But at least you’ve had the pleasure of owning it. Enjoy the Mercedes, my friend has one and there wasn’t much in it between that and the Cupra!
The sense of occasion is what its all about. Every time i even start mine gives me a buzz. Running close to 400 bhp and its got plenty if not to much power unless youre on a bypass... great vid
Thanks mate. They are both great cars but the RS is just special 🙌🏼
Lol, seeing your face driving the RS and having fun is putting a smile on my face. I miss my RS, but have a Fiesta ST mk8 now and driving it puts the same smile on my face.
Driving the RS straight after the Cupra made me realise how much I love that car 😊
@@CarFocused my Fiesta ticks exactly the same box as your Cupar does, perfect for daily driving and fun too, quick enough to enjoy. I’d love an RS mk2 but can’t quite afford one at the moment, but that is the goal soon hopefully. Look forward to your dyno run video 😉
@@deanwoolnough9761 haha thanks mate. Fez ST is a great little motor 👌🏻
Thanks for a really enjoyable video! I had a 2018 Cupra 300, also in Mystery Blue but with a manual box and loved it. I really missed it when it went and there was very little that could keep up with it on the road and overtaking was so easy and always felt safe. Replaced the the new shape Leon FR Sport 150 in September which is fine as daily and commuting in traffic but not exciting though looks great.
Found myself longing for some more power so have recently bought a Mk 7.5 Golf R 3 door manual. Probably only use it once a week but it feels very special when I do and the 4WD was great when we had lots of snow last month. 👍
Certainly can’t go wrong with a Golf R. Does everything very well 👍🏻
The RS still brings the bigger grin but it's difficult to compare it to a daily driver which you also love and luckily your in a position to own both so enjoy them 😊
Yes mate enjoy them both for what they are really. Very grateful 😊
The seat suv with the bronze badge lovely looking motor
30 secs in and it's the focus all the way for me , love them.
I can see why you keep the RS, such a special car. Always been on my radar.
It really is. Have to keep hold of it now for as long as I can 😊
Hello Gary great vid as usual you got it spot on about the feeling both cars give you.
Cupra is a great daily and all rounder it does everything well and with feedback too.
The RS is an event every time you look at it, start it, hear it and that’s even before you drive it.
Never sell it mate! 👍🏻
Thank you for watching! Oh I certainly don’t plan on selling her anytime soon, she’s a keeper 😊🙌🏼
@@CarFocused Good man! 👍🏻
Epic honest video once again. The RS is something else. The 5 pot engine is amazing & the sound track is gorgeous.
I had a stage 2 320 bhp st few years back now, spent thousands on it in upgrades but what a good car it became when I’d done. Wish I’d never got rid now, the noise them 5pot engines make with the rite exhaust on is special.
I still think a Mk2 ST is a good car to buy today. Even with the terrible mpg!
@@CarFocused yeah cheap enough these days but they are rough around the edges now. As for the mpg ….aye , my average was 23 mpg and that was not flooring it, take it on a spirited run in the sticks and bye bye fuel hello shell garage again…15 mpg 😫😆
@@Kangarillapig haha! I really enjoyed owning mine last year and the journey I had tidying it up. I’d have another one 👍🏻
Mk3 focus st here. I don't know if I ever want to go away from manual transmission 😅
Automatic is much better for daily use I think. Manual for engagement every time.
It's the theatre that's makes the RS, you need noise and engagement to have fun, newer cars tend to lack this. VAG platform cars are clinical and effective, I respect them but don't warm to them.
Yea the RS is another league in terms of feel and engagement!
I have both a stage 1 Golf 7.5R and a GR Yaris for same reason as you explain. Ones a great daily, the other outright fun driving experience and an occasion every time you chuck it thru a wet roundabout.
That sounds like a great combo to be fair mate!
I’m a US viewer where the MK2 RS and Cupra 300 don’t exist. But I do own a MK7 GTI with a 300hp tune as my daily. With that power and similar weight, same chassis, same engine, same transmission, FWD, etc. In theory it’s pretty much the same as the Cupra 300 (except different body, brand, and tires equipped) and I’m happy to see that a Cupra 300 rivals the stock MK2 RS. Heck when I did an acceleration 0-60mph (0-100kmh) test in my car it was the exact same number as the stock MK2 RS being 5.7 sec (6.1 sec) so I’m happy my car is quite similar to the RS in many ways (except for the things I’ve mentioned above as well as looks, 5 cylinder engine, and steering knuckles)
Though on a side note despite having the right amount of acceleration and handling, there’s something that my car or any other couldn’t replicate what the MK2 RS has. Which is why it still remains as one of my dream cars (that’s illegal to import)
Love your comment "this car is just me" thats what its all about, how it makes you feel, so what if theres others faster etc
That’s exactly it mate 🙌🏼😊
Genuine comparison. Emotions speak volumes! Cheers for putting a big grin on me mosh😁.
My pleasure 😊
I can't help but grinning constantly every time I drive it.
Another trip down memory lane for me...watch for the steering wheel blue stitching fraying where you hold onto the wheel tightly pushing on....the R.H. side came away on mine over a 3 year period where my right hand was gripping the wheel so tightly !!!....Damp / drying fast A roads can be fun with the Quaife diff. suddenly gripping up...when you don't expect....all good fun and keeps you on your toes..Great fun and immensely rewarding to drive on fast sweeping A/B roads...one of my favourite local roads which i used a lot with it was the B4525 Northampton to Banbury ..pity you can't post a picture on comments...
I’m not a million miles away from that road, maybe I’ll try it one day!
@@CarFocused Worth looking out if you are up this way sometime..off the A43 just past Silverstone exists. Used it daily for awhile as tripping over to Gaydon for a contract 👍
Great video. 2 fantastic hatchbacks. I’ve got a 290 cupra in mystery blue, it ticks every box what a car out of the tin.
Although I’d never own a mk2 focus RS, I can always appreciate them. Great hatch back, and will never depreciate. You could enjoy that car for another 10 years and not loose a penny. Great pair 😎
Thank you mate 👊🏻
Same!, i've been leasing a 290 'lux' since 2019 and very much enjoying it!
Both great cars,and I like your colour choice on the Cupra ! I got mine stage 1 tuned , although as you say , it's fast enough stock . I normally drive mine in Individual setting using sport as engine choice/mode on settings , I find Cupra mode a bit loud.
Yea the fake noise is a bit annoying in Cupra - I do have my individual mode tweaked to my liking 👌🏻
I’ve got a 2016 cupra and the tone changes in the cupra mode it’s like a total different car becomes very aggressive mine is 600bhp 4 wheel drive cupra mode is way loud tho on the motorway it sure lets people know your coming up fast tho
still best looking hatch out there and holding there £££ would love another myself!
Agreed 👌🏻
You can see straight away when you started driving the rs the difference in the grin factor!…great cars these mk2’s I’m taking mine out this evening for a run the sun is shining here
When I was filming as soon as I got in the RS I could tell my smile was much bigger 😊 Such a special motor!
Need to see a Carwow drag race with these two cars plus you in a pair of Vaporflys
😂 I might lose haha
Manual cupra maybe. DSG gives these VAG cars a massive acceleration advantage
@@lastexile1187yea the DSG is so fast and smooth. Can never match it manually!
Great video mate really enjoyed the end with the RS such a special car they are ! I totally get why you love it !
Hi mate, thank you! RS will always be the one for me 😊
I now have the 540i xDrive with its famous B58, amazing performance however I miss my Cupra 290 sound 😭 with its resonator delete the DSG shift sounds just insanely satisfying
Yea mine even with the standard exhaust sounds pretty damn good as it’s a pre GPF car!
RS all day ❤️
You'd be absolutely mad choosing a seat cupra over a Focus RS! German comfortable dull daily as you say and ford savage beast that puts a smile on your face. Basically a driver's car Vs a typical civilised car
I get what people say about the RS being more of an 'experience' but don't underestimate that Cupra. Once that 300 is rolling it can put a smile on your face. It just doesn't let up and the 'parp' it makes when you change gear under heavy acceleration is quite addictive. For looks, performance, equipment levels, running costs...I am not sure it can be beaten. Plus, there aren't many on the road which I loved when driving my 290 👍
Just got me an Focus RS MK3. Thank you for the video's about that one. The Mk2 is really speacial, but indeed very old inside. I do like the more modern style of the MK3. Can you make a video of the dyno of the mk2?
Dyno video is definitely on the cards. Congrats on the purchase of your Mk3 👍🏻👍🏻
After owning a mk2 RS & Mk3 RS can honestly say I don’t miss either of them! So Cupra for me
Fair enough mate 👍🏻
rs 2 and st are just great bits of kit that engine , the looks
One of my biggest regrets is not buying the MK2 RS when I had the chance back in 2010. I bought a new ST3 from the Ford dealer and they had one of these in the showroom. I could of had it for £23k brand new.
I think a lot of us thought the same. But back then 23k was still quite a bit of money. It is crazy though as that’s what I paid for mine 4 years ago!🫤
Great video, long live the mighty mk2! 💪🏻
Thanks 🤘🏻
Excellent comparision video, mate. I own a Cupra Ateca 310 DSG, which my wife dailys, and I daily the Cupra Leon 290 DSG. You're welcome to do a review of the Ateca sometime.
Love the RS mate, an absolute icon. I'm considering trading in the Cupra Leon for a GR Yaris in the near future.
Appreciate that mate. Sounds like a decent setup you’ve got going on there 👌🏻
nothing makes one smile like a mk2 rs :)
Great viewing! Would be good to see a gr yaris on your channel at somepoint. Just to see your thoughts. Looking forward to the next one!
SO MANY people have said about the GR I think I’ll have to have a go in one 👌🏻
I would imagine the RS has waaay more torque, giving so much shove in the mid range probably masks how much power it really has at the top. The cupra has a flay torque curve and is very strong at the top, the dsg box will make up alot of time in a straight line. Just fun factor of a manual though, especially when most manufacturers are moving to auto boxes only now is the time to enjoy a manual
It is really nice to still own a manual. Our family car is also an auto (CVT) so to bang through the gears on the RS is a great feeling 👌🏻
@@CarFocused couldn't agree more, coming from a 400bhp 340i auto I decided to go for a focus st (stage 1 where it will stay) for driving enjoyment. It's still alot slower than the 340i but doesn't matter, the ST is fantastic all rounder and more fun, handles better and rowing through gears when your in the mood is amazing. Eventually we will all be in electric cars with no gears or noise so I'm enjoying a more analogue car while I can
Love the cupras , Leon's in general are cracking cars. Only got a 2.0 tsi FR atm but with a revo tune on its quicker than people would expect
I’d imagine that’s around standard Mk7 Golf GTI level now then? Yes mate they are great cars, cracking value too!
@@CarFocused it should be around 260 bhp and 300 lbs ft according to revo, so should be noticeably quicker than a gti on the move.. it even uses the same dq381 gearbox as the later R/S3/ GTI cars
@Ginger Mustache is that a stage 2? I'm looking at getting and FR 2.0 or 1.8
I have a 1.4tsim150bhp and for what it is it feels quicker then what’s stated.The Leon is so easy to live with too.Really want a cuppa 300😢
@@peacelove8395 just stage 1 with a revo air filter. The 2.0 has the better dsg gearbox unless you want manual go for the cheaper 1.8
Both great cars what a good position to be in
I know mate very grateful to have them both 🙌🏼
Really nice video! I am thinking of buying a Seat Leon Cupra 300 but I haven't decided if I should go with the ST version with 4WD or the Hatchback version with FWD. What do you think? Have you ever had the opportunity to drive the 4WD version? I really like the looks of the hatchback version
I had a look at an ST but didn’t actually drive it. We already have an estate in the household so didn’t really think another was needed so I went for the hatch. But I can see the ST being a pretty decent all rounder with practical boot space and plenty of grip. Deffo a sound option 👌🏻
@@CarFocused Thanks!
I have a 2019 cupra estate which has the 4 wheel drive and dsg and I love it , it’s such a sleeper being a estate folk have no idea . I had a Honda civic type r fk2 before and the cupra would mince it but both are great cars
You love your LC300 almost as much as I love mine. The RS sounds cool. I think the only thing close to that new these days is probably an RS3. I bet that will be the last 5 cylinder RS3 as well... although, I do wonder if internal combustion engined cars will actually not dissappear like we fear.
I hope not 😢
Always loved these RSs would be very hard choice between a Astra J VXR in white.
Focus RS is a brilliant car and i think you should have bought a Golf R instead of the Seat Cupra basically same car but i think the Golf would have had less issues either that or an AMG GLA 45
You have some very nice toys. What stops me from pulling a trigger on a nice car is the stress and often the associated finance deal. I'm anxious over someone inadvertently dinking it in a supermarket car park, some Scallywag keying it, the depreciation, a dreaded dash light often means a big bill etc. Did any these things factor in your decision making when buying your cars?
Can be a worry but you just have to be a little extra cautious with parking etc.
Currently have a fiesta mk8 stage 1 250 bhp. Next car will either be cupra 300, hyundai i30n or civic type r. Not sure which one to go for😮 22k cash budget.
Tough choice. Can you get a CTR for 22k? I thought the FK8’s were more expensive than that? I haven’t checked for a while though!
I paid 20k for M240i 16k miles 2017 last month UNREAL
The Cupra would be faster, purely because of the DSG. I've got the same engine (EA888) in a Skoda Superb as it's a great unit, and rapid. Not as fun as the RS though
Man you live my dream 😊
I live my dream too haha.
The RS looks best in white rather than the blue or green IMO.
Leon Cupra a very good looking car, defo not an "old man's car" lol (see previous vid).
Haha yes it’s certainly not an old man’s car! Both are epic 💪🏻💪🏻
Had a Cupra and got rid for a GR Yaris but never get rid of my UG and never will no matter what I’m offered lol, couldn’t get on with the Cupra and great day it went 👍
Oh that’s surprising. I love mine for what it is. Did you have a 300? We have to hold on to our Mk2’s that’s for sure 😁
@@CarFocused My 10 plate at 9300 miles is mint . No more aftermarket crap just back to standard now. Cupra was great bud but I got a Seb Loeb GR and is awesome
Top end may come back when you eventually get that mountune 375 tune
Hopefully soon?😊
Nice video! On another note which hothatches would you suggest to buy?
Cupra 300
Focus ST
BMW 128ti
Here in Greece the roads are mediocre at best and the price between these 3 cars are in the range of 1 to 4k €
For me personally I would say the Cupra 300 because that’s the one I chose, and it’s actually cheaper than the other two also, with better performance 👍🏻
@@CarFocused oh ok thanks 👍
You should go revo stage 4 in your Mk2 bud
I’m really not sure what to do next…
@@CarFocused Alot of people are running big power on these. Could be worth upping the power to scare you haha.
Lot of torque steer in the Seat by looks of when you put foot down?
Brilliant comparison showing two amazing cars! Question - if it was your only car, would you go for a manual Cupra instead of a DSG?
I think I’d go DSG mate in all honesty. Day to day it’s just so much easier and using the paddles in manual mode is pretty fun. Not as engaging as manual but it’s not a bad compromise. In traffic DSG is another level 😂👌🏻
I have a 290 Cupra DSG, and it ticks all the boxes. I'd stay away from manual as the clutches are prone to failing.
@@mudguardrider8211 if they are prone to failing then it makes me wonder how many people are actually using the clutch properly.
When I let my cousin drive my manual car, he started to burn the clutch. He was trying to drive it like he stole it. Dumping the clutch is also bad too so it’s no wonder clutches fail in car videos when dragging/racing it.
It would be good to have a race with both cars to see what will win I think the rs would win
I should try and arrange it shouldn’t I! I’m really intrigued!
@@CarFocused fancy making it a three way 🚀😉
Rs all the way 👍👍
Hi, I have dipped in and out of your videos over a while now, it seems as though we probably developed our appreciation of cars over the same time period. I have a GR Yaris, and if you haven't tried one, then I recommend it. It feels like a real hot hatch throwback. Maybe you could do a short review using mine if you haven't got hold of one already?
I haven’t tried one yet! Deffo have to tick it off the list, it’s the last of the very few modern day cars that still have that appeal!
@@RollingInThe997 oh yes I already follow you on your other account. This sounds like something we can do. I’ll drop you a message 👍🏻
The RS is a car that makes you feel alive, till you’ve driven or owned one you can’t understand why it’s not just a Focus.
Certainly agree there. Very special cars that have to be experienced to be fully appreciated 😊
Raw wins every time if your a petrol head
I daily a mk2 fiesta zvh turbo
No radio
No creature comforts
It's horrendous on our roads shakes ya teeth out
But this all goes out the window when you floor it 😂
And watching you smile driving the focus just shows ☺️
Haha you must be crazy 😂 Yes mate the smile says it all doesn’t it 😊👌🏻
New cars maybe comfy and fast but there's just nothing there for me
RS will hold its value the Cupra wont both nice cars!
I am waiting to go and get my cupra 4drive st the estate version of the golf r which inlove as a underrated family car with a stage 3 it will be almost unbeatable by most cars
Yea I do like the Cupra ST’s - that will be a great all round daily weapon 👌🏻
Focus RS Is the car let’s be honest, cupra is a good daily but nothing on a mk2 for fun and noise!
To keep boost up to redline there should be a hybrid turbo. Ye it’s a lot of £££, but i think this is the best for the car in terms of OEM+ upgrades and makes it really quick even for today’s standards
Would be nice to keep that power band nice and strong all the way to the top, but not sure I’d be too popular at home if I start going down that slippery slope haha
@@CarFocused it’s for sure hahaha
Are these 2wd Seats' a bit of a handful in the wet?
I just imagine them squirming all over the place trying to get the power down!
ruclips.net/video/At8nn4l7Dh0/видео.html
@Car Focused Thanks mate- new to channel and hadn't seen that one.
In the wet, it looks like you hold on and hope for the best, to some extent!
Try a integra or fk8 , you'll find fk8 front end the best of the best. But cupra is excellent, but a bit too anonymous
I didn’t know mk2 focus were 300 standard 🤔 are you sure!
Yes I’m very sure lol
is your exhaust on the cupra stock? i have a cupra ibiza 1.8 and it doesnt do any little bits of pops :')
Yes totally stock 👍🏻
great vid mate
Thanks!
Deffo couldn’t daily, at nearly 3hrs each way to C&M last week around the M25 it was tough in the end to be honest. I’m getting old… 😂
Haha they aren’t the most comfortable things to daily now are they 😂
I also have both, FW 2RS and red 290SC dsg, prefer focus much more, bit cupra is more performance orientwd
Ha we are car twins 🤘🏻
@@CarFocused yes. Have 2x clio3 200rs CUP, too 😂
Hi mate,I know it’s not relevant to this vid but hoping you can help. In one of your older vids you had some mud flaps you were fitting or going to fit,I remember you were saying they were much better quality and fitment than the rally flapz mud flaps. You wouldn’t happen to remember what they were by any chance would ya mate?
Hi mate, they were the Rallyarmor flaps - I have them fitted to my Mk2 also 👍🏻
@@CarFocused top man. Gonna get some for my mk2 ST. Cheers for gettin back to me. Have a good weekend pal🍻
The RS is a bit boy racer like as well as the Honda CIVIC TYPE R (attention seeking) with bits stuck on the outside like Batman's car. A faster hatch that would beat the RS and the Cupra is the Audi S3 manual /dsg. The Cupra and the vag group 2 litre petrol engines do have a weakness as the water pump WILL fail and leak costing hundreds to fix. Most hot hatches have known issues that often do happen after 5 years old.
@iNSTAGiB All hot hatches have known issues but Hyundai don't seem to have as many with the I30N.
The rs is more raw, you have to drive them, the Cupra drives you.
Very good comparison there. I had a Focus mk2 ST from new. 5 door in blue. Very basic, with dual climate control, Sony radio, and light/rain sensors. Then, some years later I added some aftermarket parts to it. Suspension (H&R-Bilstein), engine tuning (Dreamscience), engine parts like Airtec intercooler, Focus RS intake, Mongoose dp and decat, Focus RS clutch, Quaife diff, Ferodo brake pads and fluid.... It was definitely fun to drive. But the car was defined mainly by it´s engine. For the good and the bad. Inmense sound, inmense torque, good engine feel. But it was too nose heavy, and very thirsty. Also the turning circle is horrendous. And the interior image, seating position, and materials aren´t something to talk about. Finally I sold it in 2018 because I fancied a change and wanted something more rounded and modern. Guess what, I bought a brand new Leon Cupra 300 dsg in blue just like yours. With some toys like heated bucket seats, navy, acc, rear view camera. And as much as I have (just like you) a place in my heart for that great tuned Focus that I had, I know the Cupra is better in every single department, minus engine sound 😄.
Greetings from Spain.
Thank you for you comment, the Cupra is a fantastic car! The RS is just special to me though 😊
@@CarFocused Totally understandable. I had the opportunity to drive a standard mk2 RS when I still had the tuned ST, and it was definitely an event, even in standard form. The aggressive aesthetics and the improved handling definitely made it a special car. I also was in the passenger seat of a JWR tuned one, and that felt VERY powerful. I was debating with myself about doing the jump from the ST to the RS. But at the time the 2nd hand market was already climbing in price very fast. And that was the final point that made me decide to buy something new and more rounded. Also I don't want two cars, so I'm better now with a more rounded option.
Great work with your videos. 👍
Being a ford boy for me the rs wins everyday
What tyres are you running on the Cupra
Conti sport contact 7’s
I would get bored of that Cupra in a month.. that rs though is a different ball game it’s a proper weapon the mk 2 is the best rs focus
The Cupra is way more clinical and I could see how some would get bored of it. Great daily though!
Tune the Cupra and you will have a new best friend :)))
Haha want to keep the warranty at the moment as I bought used approved. It’s quick enough to be honest 😃
@@CarFocused i bought the seat leon cupra r st(I have two kids)in January, it’s basically the best car that I’ve driven. It makes me smile every time. Wenn the warranty passes I’m doing stage 1 tunning, nothing crazy, 50 ps and 90 nm more. Best of luck, you got a subscriber in me.
@@DrMartinMac rare cars the R ST! Very nice. So I’m guessing you didn’t go for the ABT tuned version from the factory?
@@CarFocused I bought it 1 year old, it came without the ABT Tunning, but in Germany that costs 2500 euros and normal stage 1 tunning from nice shop cost around 600 euros. And yeah only 700 made, in Germany only 350 😁. I have 1 year warranty and afterwords I’m doing the stage 1. but as you know the car is a beast without the Tune :)))
❤ I know
What year is the cupra?
2018 facelift 👍🏻
Is that the golf r engine?
Yes 👍🏻
Great comparison. I just don't understand why you've got two relatively boring FWD grocery-getters. Get yourself a proper sportscar for weekends and fun drives and you'll never look back.
I’ve always loved a hot hatch! I wouldn’t say no to a Cayman GT4 though!
Sounds like the Cupra has a little fart in between gear changes 😂
Yep the classic DSG farts 😁
i hate DSG farts so id pick the RS any day
5 pot bangs trump DSG farts that’s for sure 😁
Get your wife to drive the cupra and do a drag race. Or race a stage 1 or 2 focus mk3 st.
Haha there’s an idea 😁
Basically you have to drive the RS the Cupra drives itself
Kind of, the Cupra can get very lively especially when it’s damp, but the RS is such a more Raw car you really have to pilot it.
Newer teck turbos and all
Cupra far more reliable
Well it’s 10 years newer so probably!lol
Just get a dragy or vbox and you’ll know which is faster
Not as fun as a real side by side pull though haha
Focus rs is a beauty however the front wheel drive lets it down. The new ones are 4x4
Cupra has abit of steering shakiness
Well there both girls cars so...
*they’re*
@@CarFocused my thoughts exactly 😂.....what an illiterate numpty!