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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 403 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 150 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 | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 140 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 9.9 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 | 1521 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 |