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 40 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 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 199 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 (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 47 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 | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 12.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
