2003 Ford Focus vs. 1977 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2003 Ford Focus is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Focus (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Focus weights approximately 385 kg more than 1977 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, 2003 Ford Focus (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Ford Focus 1977 Volkswagen Golf
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Focus Golf
Year Released 2003 1977
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1387 cc 1390 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 73 HP 49 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 125 Nm 83 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 76 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 76.5 mm 80 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
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 805 kg
Vehicle Length 4390 mm 3830 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 45 L