The Focus RS of 2016 has delivered some seriously impressive performance stats, providing for a top speed of 165 miles per hour (the Focus fastest yet), and acceleration from 0 to 62 mph that comes in at 4.7 seconds (which leaves the Civic Type-R, Volkswagen Golf R, and the Subaru WRX STI in its dust). All of which is made possible through its flagship launch control and innovative AWD system, which powers a relatively hefty weight of 1599kg wet.

The Focus RS 2016 versus the Focus RS 2009

The Focus RS 2016 has been a long time in the making and has been described as one of the most anticipated hot hatches yet. However, with the Focus RS acceleration from 0-62 mph in 4.7 seconds, compared to the 2009’s 5.9 seconds, it seems that the wait has been more than worth it. That said, it must be noted that despite the seven year hiatus, it appears that today’s RS is only just going to make it a nose further over the finish line with longer distances, as the 2016 top speed of 165mph just about tops the 2009’s top speed of 163mph (they both also come in at around the same weight, with the 2009 model being just 1kg over at 1600kg).

The Focus ST and the Fiesta ST: On the starting line

Both the Focus ST and Fiesta ST have reflected Ford’s ever more focussed drive for superior performance amongst the car classes that they’re within (something that has arguably led to jumps in sales for both of these models within the US).

So let’s see just where we stand today, when the Focus ST, Fiesta ST and Focus RS are lined up side by side and pitted against one another.

The Focus ST, Fiesta ST and Focus RS: At the finishing line

The Focus RS acceleration of 4.7 seconds makes for a stark contrast to the Focus ST’s 6.5 seconds and the Fiesta ST’s 6.9 seconds; which is made only ever more emphasised by the Focus RS’s top speed of 165 mph, which is a respectable 11mph more that the Focus ST’s 154mph, and a more impressive 26mph over the Fiesta ST’s 139mph.

Taking a look back in history

Since the launch of the first Focus RS in 2002 this has been a model that has built up a seriously loyal bunch of enthusiasts.

Yet the Ford brand is far from a stranger when it comes to the creation of iconic, industry shaping cars, such as the Escort RS Cosworth, the Sierra RS Cosworth, the Escort RS 2000 and the 15M RS. So here’s how they stack up when placed into descending performance.

Acceleration Comparison

Top Speed Comparison

Previous Ford RS Models