1998 Ford Focus vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 6 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 1,982 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 63 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 (170 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta. (165 Nm). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4420 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 |
