1998 Ford Focus vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 26 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. 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 New Beetle (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Focus | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1797 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 90.2 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |