2009 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 382 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Ford Focus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1382 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
