2008 Ford Fiesta vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 Ford Fiesta is newer by 10 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Fiesta (150 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 245 kg more than 2008 Ford Fiesta.

Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford Fiesta. 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, 2008 Ford Fiesta (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Ford Fiesta 1998 Volkswagen Golf
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Fiesta Golf
Year Released 2008 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1997 cc 1983 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 10.5:1
Top Speed 208 km/hour 192 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 8.4 seconds 12 seconds
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1137 kg 1382 kg
Vehicle Length 3930 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2490 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 62 L