2004 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 7 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 1,789 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 88 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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 (200 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
