1998 Ford Focus vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (135 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 24 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (162 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2002 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Focus | Golf |
Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4148 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1735 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2512 mm |