Ford Focus ZX3

Jupiter likes the first generation Ford Focus. The design is attractive and innovative, and the driver’s seat is a nice place to be.

It looks like the designers liked their job, this isn’t some boring and bland consumer item. Ford introduced it in 1998 for Europe, and in 1999 for North America.  The ZX3 was a North American market model, the closest model in spec for other markets was the Zetec. Ford’s intention was that the Focus would be a ‘World Car’, available in most markets globally. The ZX3 was created as sporty trim level, with a 130 bhp Zetec engine, but not as full-on, or expensive, as the SVT. Wikipedia have a complete history of the Focus model.

Magazine roadtests of the Ford Focus, and the ZX3 in particular, were complimentary about the car’s handling:

Car and Driver (May 2001) said of the ZX3 “What makes the Focus fun is its lively, nimble handling and its small size. Despite a very supple suspension, the Focus feels eager to arc into corners and stay there.”

Forbes (also May 2001) tested the ZX3 and said, “The front-wheel-powered car can be bent hard into corners and will exhibit moderate body roll, but the precise steering and stable stance are eminently predictable, so there’s never a surprise–unless you get absurdly brash.”

Edmunds.com say of the 2000 Focus, “The 2000 Ford Focus is one of the best small cars your money can buy, if the styling and the seat comfort suit you.”

Forums.

There are forums that cater for the car:

FocusFanatics don’t have a specific ZX3 forum, but do have a First Generation forum, full of useful tips.

The Ford Owners club have a specific Focus owners forum including the ZX3.

Parts

The official Ford parts website fordparts.com is a good place to start for ZX3 parts.

Auto Part Number Search have a Ford page.

OEMFordparts.com list parts, prices, and have parts diagrams to make finding your part easier.

Used Car and Owner Reviews

Cars.com readers give the 2000 model 3.7 stars out of 5

Edmunds.com readers give the car 4 out of 5 stars as a used car

Autotrader.com have an extensive write up of the first generation Focus as a used buy.  They say:

“If the 2000-2007 Ford Focus recall and reliability history doesn't scare you away, there are plenty of things to like about this car. Early models have styling that still looks good today, and many of the more high-end trims such as the ZX3 and ZTS are loaded with upscale features.”

They also note:

“The top model ZX3 and ZTS trims can be had with heated leather front seats, 16-inch alloy wheels, premium audio, a power moonroof, cruise control and a more powerful 2.3-liter engine.”

So it sounds like, in North America at least, the early generation cars weren't without problems. The bigger engine was only available after 2004 on the ZX3.

A Google picture search shows that the ZX3 has now become popular with car modifiers.

If you have a ZX3, or similar, go ahead and tell Jupiter about it in the comments (and don’t forget to link to a picture!).