ORANGE COUNTY EARNINGS

New Century Financial Corp.: The Irvine specialty finance company reported that fourth-quarter net income rose 74% to $3.3 million, or 22 cents a share, from $1.9 million, or 23 cents a share, a year ago. Revenue climbed to $30.5 million from $10.2 million. Net income for the year grew to $17.7 million, or $1.40 a share, from $1.3 million, or 20 cents a share, for 1996. Revenue increased to $98.6 million from $14.5 million.