1999 Ford Focus vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Ford Focus is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,387 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Focus (73 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Focus weights approximately 360 kg more than 1988 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 (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Focus | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1387 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
