2004 Ford Focus vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (212 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 360 kg more than 1983 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, 2004 Ford Focus (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (133 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 23.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
