2008 Ford Focus vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,522 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (222 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 197 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Ford Focus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 Focus (320 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2522 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.8 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
