2005 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 7 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (79 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 132 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.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Ford Focus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 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 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 270 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 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
