1999 Ford Focus vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1999 Ford Focus is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Focus (99 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Focus weights approximately 415 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1999 Ford Focus (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Focus | 1980 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
