2008 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 158 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Focus | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Focus | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 184 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1265 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |