overview

Powertrain Information

Engine Changes

The Focus SVT is powered by a modified 2.0L Iron Cast Dual Overhead Cam Zetec engine, but not just any Zetec engine. John Coletti, Chief Engineer at Ford SVT Enginnering, said “Typical DOHC four-cylinder engines with four valves per cylinder are great for peak power but not so strong in the low-end torque department. Our team has made some very interesting modifications that give this engine performance that's atypical of DOHC fours, particularly as far as torque is concerned. It's just a very potent, responsive engine and a very smooth powertrain."

Partnering with engineers at Cosworth, SVT was able to squeeze 170HP at 7000RPM and 145lb/ft of torque at 5500RPM. The engine was meticulously designed to achieve a staggering 85% of its peak torque at only 2200RPM, resulting in an unparalleled level of responsiveness during driving. In pursuit of attaining these impressive power figures, SVT embarked on a series of alterations to the Zetec block's internals. These modifications included the incorporation of forged steel connecting rods, endowed with 20mm wrist pins. Moreover, the implementation of cast aluminum pistons, accompanied by valve relief cuts, escalated the compression ratio from 9.6:1 to 10.2:1, facilitating enhanced performance. To further optimize the engine's efficiency and longevity, the SVT Zetec also boasts the inclusion of strategically positioned oil jets. These jets spray the underside of the pistons, promoting cooling that prove instrumental in not only maintaining optimal temperatures but also preserving the engine's overall health. By incorporating these elements, SVT has succeeded in elevating the performance of the Zetec block to unprecedented heights. With an emphasis on power, torque, and responsiveness, this collaboration with Cosworth has resulted in an engine that sets new standards for enthusiasts and drivers alike. The countless hours of research, engineering expertise, and fine-tuning have birthed an automotive masterpiece that exemplifies the relentless pursuit of automotive excellence.

The cylinder head of the revamped model underwent a thorough transformation, enhancing its performance and capabilities. One notable change was the introduction of larger intake valves, expanding their diameter from 32mm to an impressive 33.5mm. However, SVT retained the 28mm exhaust valve diameter, ensuring the exhaust system maintained its effectiveness. To complement this alteration, the valve springs received a significant adjustment, with an increase of 27% on the intake side and 19% on the exhaust side. This modification played a crucial role in allowing the engine to achieve an elevated redline. Previously limited to 6200RPM, the redline was now pushed to an impressive 7200RPM, enabling the vehicle to deliver even more power.

The camshafts were also subjected to meticulous fine-tuning. By enhancing the camshaft's duration from 205/205 @ 1.0mm to a staggering 230/220 @ 1.0mm, SVT successfully increased power, but created a more aggressive idle. However, concerns regarding this agressive idle were tackled head-on by SVT. They implemented an innovative solution—a cutting-edge oil pressure driven variable cam gear, tightly fastened to the intake cam. This ingenious system not only ensured a smoother idle but also contributed to a substantial increase in low-end torque.

The Zetec engine's dual-stage intake manifold plays a vital role in enhancing low-end torque. Prior to 5500RPM (originally 6000RPM before the 2003 TSB modification), the airflow passes through four distinct long runners. This design effectively boosts torque at lower RPMs. A cable-driven Intake Runner Manifold Controller is located on the driver's side fender, enabling the intake manifold to switch to shorter runners once the RPM exceeds 5500. This action optimizes peak horsepower at higher RPMs. In essence, this dual-stage intake system effectively improves both low-end torque and high RPM power.

Underneath the hood of an SVT, you'll find a noticeable tubular exhaust manifold at the front. This unique manifold, designed in a 4-2-1 configuration, serves two important purposes: boosting the car's power and meeting emissions standards. To achieve these goals, the catalytic converter was relocated beneath the car. Additionally, the exhaust piping underneath the car was upgraded to a 2.28-inch size, and a 3-inch exhaust tip was installed to improve overall performance.

Transmission Changes

To ensure that the SVT Focus could effectively transfer its power, the transmission underwent substantial modifications. SVT entrusted Getrag with the task of constructing a 6-speed transmission, which they aptly named the MT285. Interestingly, this transmission was also employed in the later R53 Mini Cooper S models, featuring an additional option for a Limited Slip Differential. During that period, Ford exclusively offered 6-speed transmissions in just two of their vehicles: the Focus SVT and the Mustang Cobra R.

The MT285 is a compact transmission that delivers optimal performance with its fully synchronized twin layshaft design. This innovative design enables the inclusion of additional gears without compromising its size. Layshaft 1 efficiently accommodates first, second, fifth, and sixth gear, along with a 2.88:1 final drive ratio, while Layshaft 2 effortlessly handles third, fourth, and reverse gear, along with a 4.25:1 final drive ratio. Additionally, the axles of this transmission have been reinforced with larger joints, ensuring enhanced durability and strength.

The last modification to the Focus SVT was the installation of a dual-mass flywheel, making it the first front-wheel-drive car in North America to have this feature. This change comes with several benefits. Firstly, it significantly improves the shifting experience by making it more responsive and smooth, resulting in a more enjoyable interaction between the driver and the gearbox. Moreover, the dual-mass flywheel helps to minimize engine noise and vibrations by incorporating additional dampening elements. This leads to a more refined driving experience with reduced unwanted sounds and vibrations. Additionally, the use of a dual-mass flywheel helps safeguard the synchros, which are responsible for coordinating the engine's speed with the transmission. This protection ensures reliable and seamless gear engagement. Overall, these enhancements contribute to a better driving experience for Focus SVT owners.

Chassis Information

The Focus SVT was designed to be faster and handle better than the standard ZX3. To achieve this, several upgrades were made. The SVT had stiffer valving in its shocks and struts, along with higher spring rates in the front and rear springs. This resulted in improved handling capabilities.
In terms of aesthetics, the SVT sat about an inch lower than the standard ZX3. This lower ride height not only added to its sporty appeal but also enhanced its ability to navigate corners with precision. To further augment its performance, the SVT was equipped with a larger diameter front sway bar. Unlike most regular ZX3 models, the SVT also came with a standard rear sway bar. This additional feature not only enhanced cornering stability but also helped to minimize body roll while taking tight turns. Overall, the Focus SVT offered a simplified yet comprehensive package of upgrades that made it not only quicker but also significantly improved its handling capabilities compared to the standard ZX3.

Braking performance was improved by making some key changes. The front brake diameter was increased by almost 2 inches, from 10.1” to 11.8”. Additionally, the rear drums were replaced with 11” rear brake discs. SVT also upgraded the wheel diameter to 17x7” and offered three style options: 5-spoke, 6-spoke, or a 15-spoke design featured in the later European Appearance Packages.

The changes made to the Focus SVT greatly improved its handling performance, allowing it to achieve an impressive 0.91G on the skidpad. This level of grip put it on par with the Porsche 911 Carerra 4S, which achieved a 0.90G rating on the skidpad. It's hard to believe that a front-wheel drive Ford Focus could compete with a high-performance German sports car in terms of handling. Truly mind-boggling.

Appearance Information

The SVT Focus underwent a series of changes that align with the design language seen in other SVT vehicles. These alterations, although understated, brought a sporty flair that sets the SVT Focus apart. The most notable update was the complete revamp of the body kit, featuring distinctive headlights, a unique grill, a front bumper, side skirts, a rear bumper, and a wing. Additionally, the SVT Focus boasted paint-matched mirror caps and door handles, along with a glossy B-pillar trim and rear window finishers. In 2002, the hatch trim maintained a textured black finish, but in 2003 and 2004, it was matched to the color of the car, creating a more cohesive aesthetic.

Inside, the dress-up of the car has been simplified and enhanced for a sleek and sporty look. The unique leather seats now feature stylish red or blue cloth inserts. The steering wheel cover has a sophisticated dimpled leather texture. The gauges have been upgraded to a cool electroilluminescent green, giving a modern touch to the interior. In addition, auxiliary oil temperature and pressure gauges have been added for added convenience. The plastics, such as the dash and front and rear door panels, have been transformed into a sleek dark black color, adding a touch of sophistication. The HVAC surrounds now have a stylish brushed aluminum finish. To complete the sporty vibe, the pedal covers have been upgraded to brushed aluminum with black rubber grips for improved traction.

European Appearance Package

In 2003, SVT introduced the European Appearance Package, which included HID headlights, black leather Recaro seats, and 15-spoke dark gray wheels. Two new colors were brought over from the Cobra Terminators: Screaming Yellow and Competition Orange. While you could option for the European Appearance Package on any color, Screaming Yellow and Competition Orange came default equipped with it.