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 (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 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 383 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 4000 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 | 1596 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 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 | 1118 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
