2004 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Volkswagen Polo
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 Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 401 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. 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 (178 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1997 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Polo |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |
