1998 Ford Focus vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 386 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Focus | Golf |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1501 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4246 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1782 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1423 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |