2009 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Volkswagen Passat
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 Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. (101 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 8 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. 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 (196 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1998 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Focus | Passat |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1283 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
