1999 Ford Focus vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1999 Ford Focus. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 128 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Focus. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1387 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
