2001 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2001 Ford Focus is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,327 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2001 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 205 kg more than 2001 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Ford Focus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Ford Focus (386 Nm) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (206 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Focus | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Passat |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
