3/20/20 84/100 Ford Focus ZX3

If there was one casting that I was really anticipating for the Matchbox 2000 line it was this Ford Focus, done in metallic orange (a color I love) with detailed front and rear lights and side trim, and this was at the time the first Ford Focus replica in 1:64 with ZX3 hatchback trim.  It looks awesome and still does today.  The Focus was Ford’s second attempt at creating a world-class compact car; the first was the Escort that ended up being two different models between the US and world Escort models.  This one was universal and praised for its sharp styling and excellent handling.  It may not look sporty, but it sure is one nice (though slightly big) compact car with silver triangular headlights, round grille, and round lower grille with detailed foglights.  The sides have the arching roofline with black door trim, round fender flares, and 5-spoke wheels (later flower pedal wheels) with a working suspension.  The rear has detailed taillights on the C-pillar, Focus badge, and Ford 4 u on the rear plate, while the base shows off the fuel tank, drivetrain up front, and the exhaust system.  The interior has seating for four with a detailed dashboard showing the 4-spoke steering wheel, round air vents in the center, and shifter on the center console.  I had ambitious plans to get all variants of this car, including the ROW box version, a wheel variation, an error, and the Matchbox 2000 logo version; I have been unsuccessful at the latter, but manage to get all the others.  Since toning down my collection I have reduced that to just two models, a keeper in my opinion, though future variations of this casting haven’t lived up to the level of details this first edition has to offer.

Specifications:

· Engine: 2.0L DOHC I-4 130 hp. Est.

· Transmission: 5-speed manual

· 0-60 mph: 8.5 sec. est.

· Real vehicle price: $18,000 est. 1999

Rating:  5 out of 5 stars