2008 Ford Focus vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (212 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 40 kg more than 1999 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 (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. (210 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1987 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
