2004 Ford Focus vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (131 HP) has 78 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 355 kg more than 1988 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 (175 Nm) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
