The Ford Focus, a global product from the get-go, quickly became a top-seller in the U.S. Its “New Edge” design, characterized by sharp angles and bold lines, and its independent rear suspension, unusual for compact cars, contributed to its excellent handling and ride quality.
This European-style driving experience, combined with an affordable price, made it a hit among American buyers. However, early models faced reliability issues, especially with electrical components.
Today, these older Focus models are often overlooked, unless they’re heavily customized. One such example recently sold for $40,000 at auction. This isn’t just any ordinary Focus; it’s a genuine SEMA car, showcased at the SEMA Show in the 2000s.
Its striking orange paint, RS-style bodywork, custom hood, and Mustang-inspired fuel filler door are just the beginning. Underneath the hood lies a powerful engine that sets this Focus apart. This particular Focus has been meticulously modified to enhance its performance and aesthetics. The engine, a turbocharged unit, has been tuned to deliver significantly more power than the stock version.
The suspension has been upgraded with stiffer springs and dampers to improve handling and reduce body roll. The brakes have also been upgraded with larger rotors and high-performance pads to provide enhanced stopping power. The interior of the Focus has been customized to match the exterior. The seats have been reupholstered in a high-quality leather and Alcantara combination.
The dashboard and door panels have been trimmed with carbon fiber accents. The car also features a premium sound system and a modern infotainment system. The $40,000 price tag for this customized Focus may seem high, but it reflects the significant amount of time and money that went into its creation. This is not simply a car; it is a piece of automotive art that will be cherished by its new owner for years to come.
Inside, this Ford Focus is a track-ready machine. Recaro seats, a roll cage, racing harnesses, and aluminum pedals provide a driver-focused cockpit. A touchscreen infotainment system and digital gauges add modern convenience.
But it’s under the hood where the real magic happens. A supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine, paired with a manual transmission, delivers a thrilling driving experience. With over 600 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, this Focus is capable of outperforming even the most powerful Mustangs on the drag strip.
The custom exhaust system, featuring tubular headers, an X-pipe, and Magnaflow mufflers, ensures a ferocious soundtrack to match the car’s impressive performance.
