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 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (135 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 221 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (162 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
