1999 Ford Focus vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1999 Ford Focus. (99 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 20 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Focus. (146 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
