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 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (73 HP @ 5300 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. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 49 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
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 | 1388 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
