Ford Focus ST v Vauxhall Astra VXR | evo TRACK BATTLE

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[future]

Man that Astra looks like a shit ton of fun

[Nakke]

Im a Ford guy, but i don't see why all the other Ford-guys are whining on here. Of course the VXR won, it's much more hardcore and has an LSD. The VXR should be compared to the likes of the Megane RS, and the Focus to the all-rounders in the hot hatch market, like the GTi. But it has to be said that the lack of grip on the Focus can be greatly improved with stickier tires and upgraded engine mounts.

[itsamemario]

I love my focus ST but that Astra is a beast. I also think that you have to use the ST with a different approach and technique. Maybe he should have driven the Focus first. I went from a 2013 rear wheel drive Camaro to my 2013 front wheel drive Focus ST and couldn't be happier. I got the Focus for the room and ease of access to the back seats for my 4 year old and I got the ST so I could still have my toy and it's a blast. Took me a while to get used to it and the way it handles. Also took me a while to get to a 5.9sec 0-60mph because the break in the clutch is different from what I'm used to. He needs more time with it. Lots of torque steer to on an aggressive acceleration but now I don't even notice it because I'm so used to the car and my habits are taking over.

[johnny]

Why do people keep talking about the astra only has 2 doors and the focus has 4? That doesn't make any difference the astra weighs more than the focus and still beat it end of.

[JamesAH]

It's simple, VXR beats ST, RS beats VXR

All good hot hatches

[tomderdoktor]

More torque..more power...better brakes...and a mechanical slip differential...the winner was clear before the test !a comparison would have been a ford focus rs. (305ps)

[Majki]

I was longing for an OPC model that oversteers and here it is!

[themancuniancandidate]

It's a shame so many people are badge snobs. I traded in a mint series 1 Boxster S for my VXR, and the VXR is better in just about every measurable way. Of course, it's 15 years younger, but it's faster, more agile, safer, better equipped, handles better, and uses less fuel. It just doesn't have a Porsche badge on the front (but it also doesn't have Porsche-sized repair bills). I'm not sure why people in the comments are comparing the VXR to the Focus RS; maybe the RS was cheaper in Europe, but here in Australia it was about $15k more than the VXR but only 0.2 of a second faster to 100kmh.

[aethrus]

The astra REALLY doesn't look like a FWD car in those opening shots. Very well driven Mr. Meaden!

[rvindg]

Drove an ST today, I really like the gear and clutch combo along with the driving position.

[schlumperdick]

the vxr is unreal it drifts like a 3 in this

[CagMito]

I Love Vauxhall Astra VXR/Opel Astra OPC <3

[rs]

Wow Fiesta ST did the track in 1:30.4s and Focus ST in 1:33.9, seems the wetness of tract carves out around 4-5 seconds off the dry time for Focus ST

[roballman]

always been a ford man, but ive got a 2013 astra vxr and its incredible, very quick and great to drive

[Ocharles]

The weather was really bad during the Ford's lap time

[mrdjc]

It's good for once to see an honest review for once

[Noukz]

Me thinks the EVO guys should provide us with a proper on-board camera. Behind the driver, facing forward while recording his driving as well, so we can see "live" what's going on.
Thumbs up if you agree?

[dannieboy]

I work at a Opel dealership in Germany, and I drove the Astra OPC (which is Astra VXR in Germany) just today and it is awesome!!!!
Good Interior, in my opinion great looks, a good engine and dampers and a lovely sound!

[xTruthxWithinx]

I own a regular 12 Focus and love it. Both of these hatches are beautiful and I wish they had the Astra here stateside...

[Beesechurgler]

Nice to see the vxr win, the better car in every single way