1999 Ford Focus vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Ford Focus is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Focus (99 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Focus weights approximately 345 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (149 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Focus | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
