2006 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 9 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Focus weights approximately 489 kg more than 1997 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Focus | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1226 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
