2004 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (144 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (103 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 9 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus.
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 (202 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2294 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1221 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
