2008 Ford Focus vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 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), 2013 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (90 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 14 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, 2013 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (215 Nm @ 1850 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
