2008 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,899 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 145 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, both vehicles can yield 165 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
