2006 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Focus (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Focus weights approximately 457 kg more than 1978 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, 2006 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Focus | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| 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 | 1213 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
