1998 Ford Focus vs. 2011 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 13 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 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 101 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, 2011 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2011 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2011 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2011 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
