1999 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Ford Focus is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1999 Ford Focus. (99 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 75 kg more than 1999 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (205 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Focus. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Focus | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
