2005 Ford Focus vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 17 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 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Focus (118 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Focus weights approximately 393 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, 2005 Ford Focus (160 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Focus | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.6 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
