2006 Ford Focus vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Focus (136 HP) has 87 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Focus weights approximately 1917 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 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 (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Focus | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Passat |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 45 L |
