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 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (131 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5800 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. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 7 kg more than 2008 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, 1998 Ford Focus (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 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. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.8 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
