1998 Ford Focus vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (108 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 132 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus.
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 @ 3500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
