The Peugeot 508 vs the Ford Focus ECOnetic

What are they?



Ford Focus ECOnetic

Ford has improved the car's overall aerodynamics by adding side skirts and a rear spoiler. On top of that they've modified the grille and the front bumper. Narrow low-resistance tyres, lower suspension and the almost-solid wheel trims make the car what it is. It comes with 1.6-liter diesel engine and 105 horsepower.



Peugeot 508

This is Peugeots new large saloon and estate, the 508 model replaces the 407 and 607 models. The 508 offers the interior space that the 607 does, but within a smaller exterior dimension. Whilst this model is a tiny bit longer than the 407 (10cm to be precise), it weighs a whopping 35Kg less. It features a 2.2 litre diesel engine and a double wishbone front suspension.

What is it like?



Ford Focus ECOnetic

This car is said to be able to handle B-Roads, A-Roads and motorways easily. That said, the lack of low-end torque proves quite the challenge for stop-start driving.

Whilst the ECOnetic can handle speed bumps no problem, it suffers a little at the hands of potholes and other broken surfaces which is down to its high pressure tyres.



Peugeot 508

Due to a standard fit acoustic windscreen and dampers on the front axle (used to reduce engine vibration) the inside of the 508 is very quiet in terms of wind, road and engine noise.

There is not a choice of gearbox with this engine; a six-speed automatic is the only way it comes. Although this remains a conventional torque converter auto, it is not shown up by rival's dual clutch systems. Whilst the shifts are not instant, they are quick enough, and for slow speed manoeuvres, a torque convertor is optimal.

The 508 is absolutely fine as a comfortable quiet cruiser, however it is also great for those who want to move things along. It is a pretty large car, and so it is easy to place, it's steering is quick but accurate. The types also offer fairly decent grip and a better balance than most front drive rivals.



Which one should I get?

The Focus ECOnetic is ideal for economical out-of-town driving, and at today's fuel prices the slight premium over the similarly equipped model should make its money back within a couple of months. However, if you're more of a city dweller this may not be the city car for you. Whilst the 508 is a very decent car, at £28,750 you could be looking at a BMW 3-series of a Mercedes C-Class for a similar amount. That said the Peugeot 508 has a very good specification across the board. The 508 has come a long way, the exterior styling has lost an essence of quirkiness that the 407 model offered, and it now seems a more mature car. Inside, it is now a touch more comfortable and a bit more of a proper grown-ups car, with full leather trim and colour information screens. It really boils down to what you are looking to get from a car; comfort and class at a slightly higher price or a smaller, slightly less efficient car at a cheaper price?



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Ben J White is an online journalist from Birmingham covering a range of green, environmental issues and the automotive industry. He has been writing articles and blog posts for online publications and specialises in electric cars, low emission cars and city cars.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com