2008 Ford Focus vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (212 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (170 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 66 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus.
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 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1987 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
