1998 Ford Falcon vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 Ford Falcon. (225 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Falcon weights approximately 92 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1998 Ford Falcon is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Ford Falcon (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Falcon | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Falcon | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3984 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 62 L |
