2009 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
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 W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen W12 would be higher. At 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 286 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 251 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 399 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen W12 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | W12 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1451 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
