2005 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 8 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (136 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 4 kg more than 2005 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 (205 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (175 Nm). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Focus | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1311 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2520 mm |
