2008 Ford F-450 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Ford F-450 is newer by 11 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 6,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford F-450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford F-450 (350 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford F-450 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2008 Ford F-450 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Ford F-450. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Ford F-450 (881 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 686 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (195 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Ford F-450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford F-450 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | F-450 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6400 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 881 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 6670 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4390 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.3 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 144 L | 55 L |
