2003 Ford Focus vs. 1970 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2003 Ford Focus is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Focus (108 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Focus weights approximately 225 kg more than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Volkswagen 1600 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1970 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Focus, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Ford Focus (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Focus | 1970 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 69 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 40 L |
