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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Focus (136 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 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 20 kg more than 2005 Ford Focus.
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 (315 Nm) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (175 Nm). 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 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1311 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 62 L |
