Originally posted by "Woppin Wild"
are the zx3s the ones with zetec or whatever or is that a different model? and zetec is basically just the same thing as vtec and vvtli and everything right? it's just a valve timing thing?
Zetec has nothing to do with valve/cam timing or any of that queer computer nonsense.
Zetec is just the particular line of DOHC 4-cylinder motors. Over in Europe, you can get a 1.4, 1.6, or 2.0l Zetec motor...over here it is just the 2.0l Zetec or the 2.0l SPI SOHC (which blows ass and is standard in the 4-door). There is even a Zetec V8 and V10 in Europe...for F1 cars I believe.
The ZX3 is the "base model" Focus and starts around $13k. You can pick one up just about loaded for under $15k. The ZX3 comes standard with the 2.0l DOHC Zetec motor. The next step up would be the SVT starting around $18.5k. Same 2.0l Zetec motor...but with improved cams, head, intake, exhaust, brakes, suspension, transmission, etc. The SVT actually has a VCT (Variable Cam Timing) on the intake cam...but it is purely mechanical and NOT computer controlled like VTEC or VVTi. Your best bet would probably be to pick up a 2002 SVT Focus. The 2003 SVT's are due to be out in another few months, so I am guessing you can get great deals on the 2002 since some dealers have quite a few sitting around on the lot.