1998 Ford Focus vs. 1971 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (128 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 171 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volkswagen 1600 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 1971 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus, 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 Focus (160 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1971 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
