Focus ST170

So how does the Focus ST compare to the RS version? Here's the low down!

Exterior:
Includes a mesh front grille, projector foglamps, body-coloured side mouldings and 17" alloy wheels with 215/45R17 tyres.

Interiors:
The standard specification includes sports front seats with part-leather upholstery, silver-framed instruments and aluminium pedals. Air conditioning, four airbags and a six-CD autochanger also feature.

Power:
Ford of Europe's Special Vehicle Engineering (SVE) division has increased the power of the two-litre Duratec engine, to a peak figure of 167bhp at 7000rpm. Maximum torque of 143lb/ft chimes in at 2500rpm.

Performance:
A six-speed manual gearbox is fitted and should get the ST170 to 62mph in 8.3 seconds, and on to a top speed of 133mph.

SVE's modifications include a new cylinder head, a modified intake manifold, high-lift intake and exhaust cams, bigger valves and continuously variable intake valve timing. There are high compression aluminium pistons and forged conrods, while the stainless exhaust system has been designed for extra efficiency.

Extras:
Include traction control, heavily revised suspension, larger anti-roll bars and crisper steering. Brakes are also uprated.