03 SVT Ford Focus Information Needed

[MarauderTJA]

I have an opportunity to buy a real sweet 03 SVT Ford Focus for a good price while I am here in Missouri. In Florida these cars are very rare and in big demand.

Anybody have any experience with these cars? Has all the goodies, sunroof, 17 " wheels, big brakes, upgraded stereo cd player and more. Read some stuff about this little car, forged motor, shifts at 7200 RPM and handles great on a track. 44k miles.

Was just wonder if you guys think $12,500 is a good deal for me to buy the car and maybe flip it in Florida. Kelly blue book retails it around $13,500.

[shakes_26]

Tom,

they go for that down here all the time, that oen with sunroof and upgrades maybe a tad more.

If you want a fun car, cheap, that handles like on glue, then buy it, but you wont be making any money flipping it down here.

[MarauderTJA]

Tom,

they go for that down here all the time, that oen with sunroof and upgrades maybe a tad more.

If you want a fun car, cheap, that handles like on glue, then buy it, but you wont be making any money flipping it down here.

Thanks Marc. Over on the west coast I have seen them sell for $16K. But I appreciate the input. Have a deposit on it, but haven't decided to buy it yet. Went for a ride in it, handles really well and had plenty of zip for a little car.

[94_302]

Before I got the Marauder I was looking at them. I saw some 04 and 03 Euro ones going for around 13-14 with low mileage under 30k. If you are wanting to get them I strongly suggest getting a Euro it just has so many nice things about it. By the way if you find an 04 4 door Euro in Red that is the rarest SVT focus, I think only 29 made in that combo.
From what I remember the clutches were weak and there was a TSB on some bolts backing out. Check out a focus board for more info focusfanatics.com and focaljet.com were the two main ones that I remember.
Here is an idea of whats out there.
03 Orange Euro in FL
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=209182001&dealer_id=57958760&car_year=2003&model=FOCUS&bkms=1160096858972&num_records=100&make2=&start_year=2003&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=both&distance=300&make=FORD&color=&min_price=&drive=&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=33176&advanced=y&end_year=2004&doors=&transmission=Manual&max_price=&cardist=215

Another
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=208905923&dealer_id=66343&car_year=2003&model=FOCUS&bkms=1160096858972&num_records=100&make2=&start_year=2003&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=both&distance=300&make=FORD&color=&min_price=&drive=&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=33176&advanced=y&end_year=2004&doors=&transmission=Manual&max_price=&cardist=215

03 Red, has the Euro rims
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=209966540&dealer_id=566759&car_year=2003&model=FOCUS&bkms=1160096858972&num_records=100&make2=&start_year=2003&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=both&distance=300&make=FORD&color=&min_price=&drive=&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=33176&advanced=y&end_year=2004&doors=&transmission=Manual&max_price=&cardist=231

03 Silver Euro
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=203919150&dealer_id=58006495&car_year=2003&model=FOCUS&bkms=1160096858972&num_records=100&make2=&start_year=2003&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=both&distance=300&make=FORD&color=&min_price=&drive=&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=33176&advanced=y&end_year=2004&doors=&transmission=Manual&max_price=&cardist=100

Oh and the Euro has the rims you see there, Recaro seats, HID, Sunroof, traction control, heated seats. Basically a fully loaded one but with the addition of the Recaro's which are VERY nice.
(http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=203919150&dealer_id=58006495&car_year=2003&model=FOCUS&bkms=1160096858972&num_records=100&make2=&start_year=2003&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=both&distance=300&make=FORD&color=&min_price=&drive=&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=33176&advanced=y&end_year=2004&doors=&transmission=Manual&max_price=&cardist=100)

[MarauderTJA]

Before I got the Marauder I was looking at them. I saw some 04 and 03 Euro ones going for around 13-14 with low mileage under 30k. If you are wanting to get them I strongly suggest getting a Euro it just has so many nice things about it. By the way if you find an 04 4 door Euro in Red that is the rarest SVT focus, I think only 29 made in that combo.
From what I remember the clutches were weak and there was a TSB on some bolts backing out. Check out a focus board for more info focusfanatics.com and focaljet.com were the two main ones that I remember.
Here is an idea of whats out there.
03 Orange Euro in FL
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=209182001&dealer_id=57958760&car_year=2003&model=FOCUS&bkms=1160096858972&num_records=100&make2=&start_year=2003&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=both&distance=300&make=FORD&color=&min_price=&drive=&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=33176&advanced=y&end_year=2004&doors=&transmission=Manual&max_price=&cardist=215

Another
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=208905923&dealer_id=66343&car_year=2003&model=FOCUS&bkms=1160096858972&num_records=100&make2=&start_year=2003&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=both&distance=300&make=FORD&color=&min_price=&drive=&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=33176&advanced=y&end_year=2004&doors=&transmission=Manual&max_price=&cardist=215

03 Red, has the Euro rims
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=209966540&dealer_id=566759&car_year=2003&model=FOCUS&bkms=1160096858972&num_records=100&make2=&start_year=2003&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=both&distance=300&make=FORD&color=&min_price=&drive=&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=33176&advanced=y&end_year=2004&doors=&transmission=Manual&max_price=&cardist=231

03 Silver Euro
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=203919150&dealer_id=58006495&car_year=2003&model=FOCUS&bkms=1160096858972&num_records=100&make2=&start_year=2003&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=both&distance=300&make=FORD&color=&min_price=&drive=&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=33176&advanced=y&end_year=2004&doors=&transmission=Manual&max_price=&cardist=100

Oh and the Euro has the rims you see there, Recaro seats, HID, Sunroof, traction control, heated seats. Basically a fully loaded one but with the addition of the Recaro's which are VERY nice.


Thanks for the info. No Euro wheels (SVT wheels, which personally like better than the Euros) but has HID lights and Recaro seats w/power sunroof and rear spoiler. Red in color. Still haven't decided if I will buy it or not. Appreciate your help.

[ctrlraven]

I had an 01 Ford Focus ZX3 and a 2004 SVTF, I loved that little car. Powerworks http://powerworks.net/focusforce_svt.html a sub company of Cosworth makes eaton m62 s/c kit for it. I helped one of my friends put his on a few months ago and wow. We raced eachother and he was a good 1-2 car lenghts ahead of me until we hit the 100mph range then I slowly moved up next to him before we stopped. If you want a fun lil car to zip around in I would get it

[MarauderTJA]

I had an 01 Ford Focus ZX3 and a 2004 SVTF, I loved that little car. Powerworks http://powerworks.net/focusforce_svt.html a sub company of Cosworth makes eaton m62 s/c kit for it. I helped one of my friends put his on a few months ago and wow. We raced eachother and he was a good 1-2 car lenghts ahead of me until we hit the 100mph range then I slowly moved up next to him before we stopped. If you want a fun lil car to zip around in I would get it

Cool. Just what I need to do, S/C it:D . My wife would kill me in my sleep. Was thnking of selling my 04 GMC Canyon and having the SVT focus as the run around econo fun car. Still don't know.....:confused: Thanks for the info.

[RR|Suki]

Cool. Just what I need to do, S/C it:D . My wife would kill me in my sleep. Was thnking of selling my 04 GMC Canyon and having the SVT focus as the run around econo fun car. Still don't know.....:confused: Thanks for the info.
If upi want one that bad, they go for around 10K up here in MI

[94_302]

Procharger and vortech also make kits for it as well as jackson. However I would go with the powerworks. I think it needs the down low tq of a roots style blower and the jackson does not cut it, although it can be had cheap. There is also a turbo kit from turbo Tom but I heard a rumor that he no longer makes them. Well it sounds like the car is either a Euro or it had the euro interior swapped in. You might want to look into that. The one thing that makes me wish I had gotten a SVT Focus is the Manual transmission. I really wanted a manual car but in every other category I liked the Marauder more.
The Euros also have a plug for an engine block heater, it sounds like it is a Euro that just had the wheels swapped. But try to find out because I know the Euro had side airbags, I'm not sure on the regular SVT. So if they were swapped in it might be a good idea to try and find out if they are connected. Oh and as far as it being a run around econo car, I recall a few people getting mid to high 30's with a tune.

By the way a Red 03 Euro is 1 of 101. :cool:

[Raudermaster]

I want one for a DD once my MM is paid off. My buddy has one with the occasional bolt on's, Chip, intake/exhaust, pretty quick car and is comfy. I'd get it.

[ctrlraven]

04 had the options of european appearance package (same wheels in the pic and recaro heated seats), HIDs and sunroof, audiophile package and winter package.
http://www.drivefavoritecar.com/includes/images/Ford_Focus/2004_Ford_Focus_SVT.jpg

[MarauderTJA]

Procharger and vortech also make kits for it as well as jackson. However I would go with the powerworks. I think it needs the down low tq of a roots style blower and the jackson does not cut it, although it can be had cheap. There is also a turbo kit from turbo Tom but I heard a rumor that he no longer makes them. Well it sounds like the car is either a Euro or it had the euro interior swapped in. You might want to look into that. The one thing that makes me wish I had gotten a SVT Focus is the Manual transmission. I really wanted a manual car but in every other category I liked the Marauder more.
The Euros also have a plug for an engine block heater, it sounds like it is a Euro that just had the wheels swapped. But try to find out because I know the Euro had side airbags, I'm not sure on the regular SVT. So if they were swapped in it might be a good idea to try and find out if they are connected. Oh and as far as it being a run around econo car, I recall a few people getting mid to high 30's with a tune.

By the way a Red 03 Euro is 1 of 101. :cool:

I went back down to check the seats. They are not Recaros. Nice half leather half cloth SVT seats. Not a Euro... Looks like I am going to pass, I think. Will sleep on it and decide tomorrow. I would have to cancel my flight, get a ride from KCI back to Sedalia and then a 1300 mile ride back to Florida. Would be a fun ride home though......

Thanks eveyone for the information.

TOM

[mtnh]

My son has a red 5-door 03 SVT. He has had repeated troubles with the clutch and transmission. Get the car warm and allow it to run in neutral and listen for nasty rattling noises. If this car does not have that noise, then at least one huge problem will be avoided. My son's car has had 3 clutch pressure plates, 3 disks, and one flywheel, plus a transmission. I held a stethoscope to the gearbox while it was idling on stands with no wheel movement, and the noise inside was pretty bad. The dealership insisted the clutch itself was bad and change it, with no change in the internal noise. Months later, with the transmission making noise worse than ever, he finally got a transmission and flywheel replacement, but they made him pay for the entire clutch. We considered it better than having to pay for a tranny, so we took the deal, but he says the noise it beginning to return.

Anyhow, the rest of the car is pretty sweet, with no problems whatsoever with the engine. He's got some kind of magnaflow exhaust on it, and it's a bit noisy for me, and as my neighbor says, "I don't mind a V8 running open exhaust, but I hate the sound of a chainsaw!"

He has the cold weather package, which includes the block heater, heated seats, and a few other things. He bought it new in spring of 2004 for around $14K.

The six-speed transmission is very nice with a close ratio for small rpm changes when shifting up.

One other thing. The SVT warranty is very good, and applies to the SVT focus. You get your car washed and a loaner vehicle each time it is in the shop.

As a MM owner, if you must have a smaller car, this would probably be one of your best options without turning to an import. It's a lot of bang for the buck and I will tell my son that he could get some decent money for it in FLA!

Good luck with your choice.

[Canadasvt]

I had a loaded 2002 SVTF before the Marauder. Nice car for the first year but then it started to be in the shop too often (sunroof,throttle cable,heat shield,O2 sensor,clutch...). I'd say pass. You can get one up here in Toronto for $12,000 CDN and they are not selling very fast.:down:

[94_302]

04 had the options of european appearance package (same wheels in the pic and recaro heated seats), HIDs and sunroof, audiophile package and winter package.
http://www.drivefavoritecar.com/includes/images/Ford_Focus/2004_Ford_Focus_SVT.jpg

Was your's a Euro? If so, what color? 03 also had Euro but not in 4 door.
mtnh it sounds like that tsb.
If you really are set on the car go for it, but I would try to find an 04 and a Euro. Once you sit in the seats you will realize it's worth it. It took a while, but the Euro rims have grown on me.

[MarauderTJA]

Thanks everyone for your input. Really help in my decision. I have decided to back out. First, too much of a hassel to cancel my flights, go to KCI from where I have to drop off the rental car, get a ride (taxi) back to Sedalia (100 miles). Then a 1300+ mile ride back to Florida. I still may look at one down the road for a fun econo car. But I also have some serious mechanic bills coming up shortly with the install of my new forged monster motor this next week. Was thinking about the probable additional costs with that as well. My Marauder is the priority for me. I admit I was impressed with the SVT Focus though. Sharp little car and very roomy for its size. Thanks again everyone.

TOM

[Eric91Z]

I have thought about one of these as a DD when I can afford another car, but I read on teh SVT forums that the SVTF was only getting around 23-25 mpg on the highway and requires premium gas. Big turn off for me. I already have almost that with the Marauder. If I am going to get 23-25 mpg I want a Panther car that can run on regular unleaded and save a little cash (adds up quick at 500+ miles per week).

I do like the cars though and would take one over an import of similiar class. Although the reliability/problem issues would concern me a little...

[not5-0]

I had one and loved it...I say go for it...hold out for a european trim pkg...very rare

[Loco1234]

Id you wanna find stuff fro a Focus or an XR4TI...
EURO model too...
goto BAT (British American Transfer)

http://www.batinc.net/main.htm

They even NOW care stuff for the FUSION.... Reeally COOL...

[MarauderTJA]

Well after some consideration And the Deal I Got I bought the 03 SVT Focus. Ordered the $19.95 CarFax report, came clean, one owner car.

AND I FOUND OUT on CarFax Report,

the dumb-azz salesman forgot to tell me the car was an SVT Certified Car, 115 point inspection etc. I was there with the mechanic as he re-checked everything again for me. (A cool guy, had an 03 Mustang Cobra and drag raced as well and I of course told him about my Marauder) Being an SVT Certified Car it also qualified for a 5.9% FMC interest rate. Better than the 12.5% earlier! And had a complete powertrain waranty up to 70K. Then the dealer gave me 1/2 price on the Ford ESP which covers the entire car for up to 100K ($100 deductable). Sweet deal! Total cost, $12,200. Car cost $11,800. Couldn't pass it up.

Brought the rental back to the airport. A friend drove me back to Sedalia. Pick up the car tomorrow morning to drive it back to Florida for a 1300 mile drive. Time for me and the SVT Focus to bond on the ride home.:D

Should be a great daily driver. Will let you guys know how it goes on the ride home. Will try and drive at least 500 miles tomorrow. Hope to make it past Nashville.

[MarauderTJA]

I have thought about one of these as a DD when I can afford another car, but I read on teh SVT forums that the SVTF was only getting around 23-25 mpg on the highway and requires premium gas. Big turn off for me. I already have almost that with the Marauder. If I am going to get 23-25 mpg I want a Panther car that can run on regular unleaded and save a little cash (adds up quick at 500+ miles per week).

I do like the cars though and would take one over an import of similiar class. Although the reliability/problem issues would concern me a little...

I checked with a couple of people who owned these cars and two of them told me on the highway in 6th gear they got 31 MPG. We'll see. I let you know how that works out on the trip home.

[Eric91Z]

I checked with a couple of people who owned these cars and two of them told me on the highway in 6th gear they got 31 MPG. We'll see. I let you know how that works out on the trip home.

I would be VERY interested to see see what kind of mileage you get on the higway. Might make me change my mind at looking for one. If I could could anywhere near 30 mpg, it wouldn't make putting premium in so bad and still have a fun car to drive on a daily basis.

You did test drive it, right? How was interior space and comfort from a driver perspective?

[MarauderTJA]

I would be VERY interested to see see what kind of mileage you get on the higway. Might make me change my mind at looking for one. If I could could anywhere near 30 mpg, it wouldn't make putting premium in so bad and still have a fun car to drive on a daily basis.

You did test drive it, right? How was interior space and comfort from a driver perspective?




I went for a nice test drive. Amazing room for a compact. And I am a big guy, 245 lbs. Great seats, the drivers is adjustable 8 ways. Little car moves, brakes and handles unreal. I was very impressed. Really looking forward for the long ride home. Will let you know tomorrow night how things go. Going to drive 10 hours. Stopping tomorrow night in Chattanooga, TN.

[Eric91Z]

Once again, another car I would be interested in, but never any around here to even get a test drive in to check out. Would like to get a chance to sit in one and see if there is the comfort I would want on a daily 90 or so mile commute that I do.

How is the overall set-to-pedals-to-steering wheel-to shifter layout? Interior pics I have seen make it look like it might be a slight reach down to the shifter. Or do the seats sit low enough to make it an easy reach?

[94_302]

Congrats on the purchase! I think with a new tune in those cars you could easily break into the 30's on the hwy. One guy even claimed he hit 40 mpg. It all depends on the tune/right foot/road conditions.

[Canadasvt]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v285/Canadasvt/SVT%20Focus/acb9c2b8.jpg

Here's mine on an autoX. Great fun. One time on focuscanada.net someone was worried because they had accidently taken their SVTF to redline. I replied how I'd taken mine to 7,100rpm at least 13 times that day on my way home from work! Enjoy her. You sure you didn't know you'd be driving away with her all along?;) :D Oh, and I'm 6'4" and 250lb+ with plenty of room, except with the helmet on.

[StevenJ]

Well congragulations TJA! Make sure to bring up to the next meet this month! We won't rag on you too much j/k!

[MarauderTJA]

Man what a car. I absolutely love it! Comfortable, handles like it is on rails and moves right along. From Sedalia, MO to just past St Louis in a little town in Illinois my first fill up netted 29.3 MPG. I was traveling 75-80 MPH and got on it several times. One time up to 130 in 5th gear! Makes me wonder what the car would top out at 7000 RPM?

Love the 6 speed. You have to keep the revs up but it is a lot of fun shifting and down shifting. Hit an area with some twisties in TN and coming down the mountain to Chattanooga where I am at a hotel now. The car sticks like rails, even at speed (80-85 MPH). Second tank of gas (10 Gallons) I netted around 28.4, but I was traveling a bit faster averaging around 80-85 MPH. No question if you travel the speed limits (70) the car will easily make over 30 MPG, no question.

I think I like car because it is so different to drive than the Marauder. Kinda like a high reving little sports car. The car is small but really quite roomy inside. Lots of room for a car this size. Seats and driving position is great. Shifter is right under your right hand. Pedals in a nice location. And the HID headlights are great. I need to get some of these for my Marauder. Nice lighting up road signs. I am keeping this car and will sell my 04 GMC Canyon. It belongs in my stable without question. I am calling it my Mini-Marauder. Highly recommend this car if you can find one. I'm not an easy person to impress, but I am seriously impressed with the SVT Focus. A real shame they stopped making them...stupid FORD.:mad:

Looking forward to the ride through Georgia and back to Cape Coral, Florida.

[ncmm]

I'm sure you'll love it. I had a new one, cd silver all the options(vin ended in 1499) for a year but after getting my Bullitt I traded it in on the Marauder.
Take good care of your new baby!

[StevenJ]

TJA, Ford still makes a Focus ST with a five speed an 150 hp I believe. A chip should get it up to 160-170 hp. Well I'm glad you are having fun with it anyway.

[maraudernkc]

Tom. will that Focus fit in your Marauder trunk? LOL!!!!!:banana:

[MarauderTJA]

TJA, Ford still makes a Focus ST with a five speed an 150 hp I believe. A chip should get it up to 160-170 hp. Well I'm glad you are having fun with it anyway.

The SVT Focus is a 6 speed and is rated at 170 HP. I really think that is a conservative number though. On the ride home I had the car up to 140 MPH and had more to go. I love this car. A great DD and alternative to driving my Marauder.:D

The final leg of the ride I got 30.5 MPG and was traveling at 85-90 MPH a lot fo the way. Left KC at 9:30 AM Saturday and pulled into my driveway at 4 PM today. I hauled azz. Only saw 4 State Troopers the entire ride. They must have been on days off.

[Eric91Z]

So, how about an update on the Focus? Still enjoying it? Any problems? Any modifications done?

[MarauderTJA]

So, how about an update on the Focus? Still enjoying it? Any problems? Any modifications done?

Absolutely love this litle car. Took it to MV IV while my Marauder was down. Have put 7K on the car since purchasing it. A lot of fun to drive with the 6 speed. Blew 2 Marauders away on an long sweeping ramp onto the highway at MV IV coming back from dinner one night :lol: (you guys know who you are). No plans to modify it. 47K on the car now with a 100K bumper to bumper Ford warranty. Car would really haul with a turbo though. Will be driving it to New Orleans next month on business. Love the 30 MPG highway and 22 city mileage. Requires premimum gas. All in all an impressive car with all the bells and whistles.

[SergntMac]

Hey Tom, you should check out the Ford Racing catalogue...Pages 170 through 190, 20 some pages of mods and sports gear just for a Focus!

[MarauderTJA]

Hey Tom, you should check out the Ford Racing catalogue...Pages 170 through 190, 20 some pages of mods and sports gear just for a Focus!

Thanks Mac. But, I am hesitant to look at the goodies:shake: . I promised myself to leave this " car bone stock." My :bows: Marauder is keeping me plenty busy with mods, some problems and spending $$$:rolleyes:.