You may also want to shy away from the 1999-2001 Foci. By far the WORST car as far as recalls go. My 2000 was plagued with problems. You'll be much better off with a 02+ Focus. No recalls, no issues...just a great car.
I totally agree with you man, ive been on focus sites that all they talk about is the mainly 2000 year recals.
I made sure i at least got a 02 model.
But yea, the 2.0 Zetec motor has tons of parts. Idk about da AUTO tranny though :\