Old vs. new: Ford Focus RS

The legend:

Ford Focus RS Mk I (2002)

It would be wrong to say that 2002's Ford Focus RS was heaped with unanimous praise from the start. It wasn't. In fact, it attracted more than its fair share of criticism, mainly because of its tricky handling, manifested in a tendency to veer wildly left or right on a bumpy road in the higher reaches of the rev ranges. It also delivered most of its 212bhp power output in a huge lump from around 4,000rpm when the turbo kicked in. It was never dull, that's for sure, but driving a Focus RS enthusiastically was a lot like taking part in a wrestling match with the wheel.

The newcomer:

Ford Focus RS Mk II (2009)

Ford sold around half of its total 4,500 Mk I Focus RS production run here in the UK - Britain likes its fast Fords. So, despite weak claims by Ford that it wouldn't happen, a second-generation RS was a no brainer. What we didn't realise was that Ford was going to put over 300bhp (301bhp, exactly) through the front wheels. And given that the 212bhp original struggled to put its power down, gallons of tea was simultaneously spluttered out at RS owners clubs across the country when that particular announcement was made.

Yet thanks to a fancy (and possibly black magic) front suspension setup called 'RevoKnuckle', the new RS puts all its power down just fine, ripping to 62mph in 5.9 seconds and offering levels of cornering grip previously unfelt in a hot hatch with four proper seats. It's been scathingly noted that its 0-62mph time isn't much quicker than its predecessor's 6.4-second sprint, but that's missing the point. The newcomer's power is just so flexible, so manageable - but no less compelling.

A worthy successor?

If the original RS performed like the guitar legend archetype of old - extremely talented but prone to drunken outbursts of sloppiness and unpredictability - then the new RS is more like today's rock star. It's extremely talented, very well rehearsed, ever so slick, and all its bouts of hooliganism are actually carefully planned because it's good for publicity.

On that basis it's tempting to say that the new Focus RS is over-engineered and lacks character compared to its forebear - but that would be rubbish. Quite simply, it's just a much better car. It's 89bhp more powerful than its predecessor, so that it stays on the straight and narrow with the throttle mashed into the floor is a near unbelievable achievement. It's more than worthy: it calls the original a drama queen then kicks sand in its face and drives away.

What are my options?

Officially, the list price on a new Focus RS is £26,000 but the reality is about £3,000 north of that once you've added metallic paint and an options pack. And if you want one immediately with delivery mileage, expect little change from £30,000 - and we've seen some selling for more.

Of course, given their relatively limited production run, original RS cars - which came in only one colour, Imperial Blue - are quite rare, though there's still some choice. However, it's imperative you drive a few examples before committing to purchase. As ever, the usual service and ownership history rules apply, but the used RS market is notoriously inconsistent, with notable variations in power and handling from one car to the next. Not wild, but noticeable. A £12,000 - £15,000 budget will get a well looked after example with a full service history and 30,000 miles or less. Be wary of cars with modifications like engine remaps, aftermarket exhausts and the common induction kit upgrade - make sure you know who did the work and how reputable they are.

And the winner is:

2009 Ford Focus RS

It's like comparing Donald and Kiefer Sutherland. Donald was a talented and eminent actor in his time, but he was slightly funny looking, edgy, and better suited to being the off kilter alternative hero. Now think about Jack Bauer. Come on - who would you rather have by your side?

Mark Nichol