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Old 12-19-2014, 02:30 PM   #22 (permalink)
jcp123
Just cruisin’ along
 
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Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: Rochester, NY
Posts: 1,183

Beater Echo - '00 Toyota Echo
90 day: 42.67 mpg (US)

Hondizzle - '97 Honda Civic DX
Team Honda
90 day: 46.55 mpg (US)

Shaggin Waggin - '14 Chrysler Town + Country
90 day: 22.56 mpg (US)
Thanks: 66
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I thought the stock suspension was a fine piece of work, but I do agree that the SVT stuff was amazing. Ride was still fairly compliant, but you forgot that the Focus was designed with a fairly tall cabin, it had razor sharp reflexes. Super responsive to mid-corner throttle lift or braking, it rotated very well. I do think that the actual SVT Zetec was the weak link; not very responsive down low, and didn't feel as powerful as its 170hp suggested when flogging it. It was also stupendously thirsty for something of its size. 26-28mpg was the best I could ever do on my commute, though 35+ was a breeze on the freeway.

I kind of miss my SVT though, it was a really nice car, practical, entertaining on technical roads, nicely done interior, and a great GT car as well. A turbo approach or a Duratec 23 would have matched the chassis better though, IMHO.
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'97 Honda Civic DX Coupe 5MT - dead 2/23
'00 Echo - dead 2/17
'14 Chrysler Town + Country - My DD, for now
'67 Mustang Convertible - gone 1/17
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