The Ford Focus 1.8 16v with a Avondale Dart 470-2 with an actual weight of 1120 kg is in general a good match and suitable for journeys on most kinds of roads, sometimes with some limitations in the mountains.
The motor preformance of the Ford is in general sufficient. And also the weight of the Avondale with a User Payload (187 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is good.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
187
98
Mountains
Risk of snaking
180
175
Weight ratio: 75% (86% of kerbweight)
1120 kg
1500 kg
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Ford Focus 1.8 16v Avondale Dart 470-2
Actual Weights
Avondale Dart 470-2: 1120 kg.
Ford Focus 1.8 16v: 1500 kg.
Noseweight: 70 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 75%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally fairly good on flat roads (performance score to compare 187 points).
Speeds of 67 mph (108 km/h) to 73 mph (118 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is only very moderate power at low engine speeds (score to compare 98 points).
Slightly higher revs (2900 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 23.2 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally fairly good (score to compare 180 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 12%, but do require some experience from the driver.
On motorway inclines higher revs (4900 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 58 mph (93 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Ford is sufficient (check this in your vehicle documents).
If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997, a B driving license is enough.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 75%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 86%.
The chance of snaking is relatively small at normal speed, if the caravan is well loaded.
Recommended noseweight is 70 kg.
Safe speed up to 62 mph (100 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 175 points.
If the caravan starts to snake you should reduce your speed and slow down directly! Lift your feet off the accelerator and brake gradually. Hold the steering wheel into a fixed position.
Conclusion
Performance is sufficient.
Safe driving is possible.
It's a good match, sometimes with some limitations in the mountains.
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.