Ever since the Ford Focus RS500 was announced to be developed and various spy photos and videos of it emerged, both the media and public have hugely anticipated its release as the RS line is not only fun to drive but very powerful and effective as well. However, recent reports show that the development of the RS500 may be hanging by a thread. This is because it may be a direct competition of the Ford Mustang.
The 'Might Be' Ford Focus RS500
With spy photos and videos already emerging, Ford finally confirmed last month that there will be a Focus RS500, a more radical, powerful variant and faster than the basic RS set to compete with Mercedes-AMG A45 and Audi RS 3.
With the same gasoline engine 2.3 - liter Ecoboost that the Focus RS, the power of the future Ford Focus RS500 would increase dramatically. By electronic reconfiguration of said mechanical, it would rise from the 350 hp RS to a whopping 500 hp. In addition, the new compact high performance evolves in acceleration from 0 to 100 from the current 4.7 seconds of the RS to 4 seconds and speed from 266 km / h to more than 275 km/h, according to Autoblog.
According to the first spy pictures reported by RoadandTrack, the engine is not the only change in the Focus RS500 to extract more performance. The side windows of plastic and body panels will be reinforced with carbon fiber. In addition to the elimination of soundproofing material, aerodynamic changes are added as well as larger brakes. The aim of all these measures is to reduce weight.
Overshadowing The Ford Mustang
According to Autocar, internal sources in Ford have said that the project has only around a 30% chance of being a reality. Sales prediction does not bode well for the Ford Focus RS500 and is expected to be low.
The problem is not the product itself or it's possible to price as it is more than attractive with a reasonable price. The problem is within Ford itself as they fear that the RS500 might compete directly with the new Ford Mustang GT - Ford's most popular and powerful sports car - as their price and power is within the same range.
Inside sources say the brand doesn't want this to happen since Ford sells its products under the philosophy "One Ford" and competing with each other may be a problem.
All hopes are not lost as Ford continues to study the RS500 and is said to be planning the right time of its debut and production. We believe that there's got to be room for two awesome cars. Check out the RS500 testing at the Nurburgring tracks below.
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