2002 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Ford Focus is newer by 5 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 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Focus weights approximately 115 kg more than 1997 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, 2002 Ford Focus (325 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Ford Focus | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Focus | Golf |
Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 325 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |