2008 Ford Focus vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 123 kg more than 2001 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 (196 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.9 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1283 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
