1998 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (183 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
