2009 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,522 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (222 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 232 kg more than 1997 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, 2009 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Focus | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Focus | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2522 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 222 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 75.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |