2008 Ford Focus vs. 1983 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (90 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 532 kg more than 1983 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, 2008 Ford Focus (215 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (97 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1983 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 97 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.8 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
