The Ford Focus 1.8 TDCi with a Swift Charisma 220 with an actual weight of 1180 kg is in general a good match and suitable for all journeys on all kinds of roads.
The motor preformance of the Ford is in general more than sufficient. And also the weight of the Swift with a User Payload (126 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is good.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
188
150
Mountains
Risk of snaking
191
173
Weight ratio: 75% (86% of kerbweight)
1180 kg
1572 kg
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Number of useful calculations:
2
Ford Focus 1.8 TDCi Swift Charisma 220
Actual Weights
Swift Charisma 220: 1180 kg.
Ford Focus 1.8 TDCi: 1572 kg.
Noseweight: 70 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 75%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally fairly good on flat roads (performance score to compare 188 points).
Speeds of 67 mph (108 km/h) to 73 mph (118 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is sufficient power at low engine speeds (score to compare 150 points).
Slightly higher revs (1900 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 23 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally fairly good (score to compare 191 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 14%, but do require some experience from the driver.
On motorway inclines higher revs (3600 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 173 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 more than sufficient.
Safe driving is possible.
It's a perfect match!
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.