1998 Ford Focus vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 48 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 @ 2000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| 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 | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
