1998 Ford Focus vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 46 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 (178 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (140 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 163 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.7 seconds | 16.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1169 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
