Ford Focus RS vs Volkswagen Golf R - which is fastest? | evo DRAG BATTLE

[@user-lb7pt6jb3o]

if the golf won everyone wouldve made fun of the RS since the RS won everyone is gonna say drag times dont matter

[@jrzez]

They don't. The RS isn't made for dragging, it's made for track fun. It just happens to be pretty quick in a straight line. Tunes for it yield VAG tune level improvements as well. The difference is the chassis/suspension of the RS and the way it's AWD is better than Haldex makes it superior in fun factor on the track or back roads. I didn't buy a Golf R though I could have, since I own a RS.

[@JoJoJoker]

+jrzez the R's interior, DSG (a tune makes it PDK-like) and luxuries like adaptive cruise are appealing. Our US R is pretty stripped and comparable to the RS. It'd be hard to say no in Europe with all the options like 2-door & sunroof.

[@RaytheonNublinski]

The RS wins easily because of the drift button. There's no topping that.

[@jeffk464]

The RS is clearly the better sports car, but the R still has the better interior and probably ride.

[@lewis2827]

+jrzez who said a golf was made for drag races?

[@gietie96]

Considering the difference of 50HP and nearly 70lb ft of torque, the Golf R's performance is remarkable.

[@rfouR_4]

VW massively underrates their cars. The GTI for an instance makes more at the wheels than VW states it makes at the crank. The gearing also starts to play in at higher speed. The Focus is more for medium speed track work so tighter gearing means not as potent on a highway pull from 60-100.

[@rfouR_4]

Evo also think turning in a drag race, especially in a car with torque vectoring, isn't going to effect 1/4 mile times. Bit weird how they do that.

[@dschonsie]

+Douglas Miller that's a lie i could live with

[@Kaisuke971]

You've probably forgotten that the Focus is heavy as hell

[@superjervis]

Not that surprising when you consider the weight and drive train loss of the Ford's 4wd

[@dalemansukh]

Awesome Video - please keep them coming! I own a 2016 manual Golf R, and couldn't be more proud of the result. Both cars are awesome daily drivers; hot hatches FTW!

[@SpyderRios]

The Golf R was able to catch up because it has more aggressive gearing. the Top Speed for the Focus RS in 5th gear is 152 vs 137 MPH for the GOLF R. That and the lighter weight in the Golf R make up for the difference in horsepower. The same gearing in the RS as compared to the Golf R would have clearly resulted in a drastic advantage to the Focus RS. With that being said, the RS is better geared for the track where the RS is suppose to shine.

[@tescoshortage]

Not just that. Europe dyno tests their engines at peak power RPM constantly. The rest of the world uses an RPM sweep. A 290hp engine in Europe is more like a 335hp engine everywhere else.

[@upload9595]

I didnt expect the Golf to start coming back after 80 mph... What a machine. :D

[@upload9595]

Type R has more power and torque then the golf and is lighter. Cupra has pretty much same engine as Golf R and is lighter and less drivetrain losses. So what was your point?

[@upload9595]

Tab Tiurf It still pulls back at a 50 hp more powerfull car with pretty much the same weight cuz the ford had 1/2 tank of fuel and the golf had full tank so.....what was your point again?

[@pokest225]

+upload9595 Golf r is a generation ahead of the Focus, is a little bit lighter, has more power than claimed, and has shorter gears. No surprise it puts a good fight. But still, without the dsg magic, it loses.

[@upload9595]

Tab Tiurf You better start laughing then. But thing is.. it is better than both you mentioned.... they call the cupra the FWD Golf R so...(not the other way around) and the Type r suspension is so hard that it is undrivable on road. So what was your point again?

[@stevehash158]

Lol simple reason the weight figures ARE NOT ACCURATE

[@TheForresterOD]

Much as I love the Focus, it would've seen tail lights if the Golf had the DSG box

[@TheForresterOD]

Greenest Dreamer I agree that I'd prefer a 6spd, but given how much the Golf bogged coming off the line and how much ground it gained in the end, it's clear as day that a DSG equipped one using launch control would've eaten the RS's food

[@PapiAndrey]

Greenest Dreamer That's what I thought before I bought a 6 speed manual and a dsg gti. I had a chance to drive them both (obviously), and the Dsg is not "lame" or boring in any way. Don't knock it until you try it.

[@1Steph]

DSG's are fun, freaking quick changes are crucial, but that RS will put the Golf R in smoke. Manual lives on.

[@luckyrYtArd]

but the car did it not the driver tho

[@DjNikGnashers]

I'm just surprised the Focus made it to the end of the test without the engine shitting itself.

[@govr6go171]

Do it with the R DSG

[@LivingLifeSlower]

And then watch everyone say unfair race?

[@alexandrefernandes9233]

230bhp/ton against 204bhp/ton is also unfair for the VW Golf R... the DSG would balance this and make it fair!

[@johnjackson12]

Yeah 204bhp/ton on paper, c'mon we all know thats bollocks haha. On superchips website the Golf R actually produced 316bhp, thats 20 more than on paper. The RS on same site 335bhp 10bhp down... so that huge chasm of nearly 50bhp is actually only a mere 19bhp in the real world, then take into account the 50kg weight difference and the wing on the RS, then you realise it makes sense the Golf R starts coming back on the RS.

[@alexandrefernandes9233]

john jackson Did you also weight the drivers?! LOL

[@johnjackson12]

Alexandre Fernandes they do several runs, swapping drivers and that, makes no difference as the times are the fastest ones that were achieved during the whole day.

[@Hack_es]

was suprised how good the VW R could keep up.

[@rolexaddict4344]

Yeah lifeless please explain us why would not it keep up?

[@ashtonmurch2142]

+nassim479 thank you

[@mituc]

Controlling lunch too much may result in missing dinner. However, judging by the position of the sun, I believe that they launched these cars into the 1/2 mile drag before lunch. Btw, the launch control in the RS seems to be a little too protective with the transmission. Probably that's why they didn't use it.

[@ponygt6629]

Victor Tarhon-Onu No excuse there the RS did a 60 in 4.7s , but the big problem is post 100 mph the RS struggles, mainly because as I mentioned earlier, less power post 5500 rpm and then probably that weight

[@mituc]

Ponygt 662 Nah... it pulls until 7000rpm on the rev gauge, so probably that's 6700-6800rpm, but the longer gearing puts the RS into a major disadvantage past 100-110mph (actually starting a bit sooner as far as I could tell, maybe around 50-60mph).

[@MrJdp1968]

This is the only time I've seen the Focus beat the Golf,in other videos the Golf has hammered the Focus.

[@LoveGod16]

there are no other videos.

[@MrJdp1968]

+LoveGod16 yes there are!

[@chrisdooley6468]

+julian pierce how bout posting a link to one cause I can't find one either:)

[@dublinairportplanes]

In every test the RS has embarrassed the golf R

[@MrJdp1968]

+alan scott it hasn't embarrassed it at all.The focus RS is a fantastic car and a bargain,it's the best car from Ford for years.The twin test reviews from Autocar,Evo etc never mention it embarrassing the Golf.

[@neilmc5704]

why did the Focus RS drift off to the left by about 3 lanes worth?? it's time would of been a lot faster if the driver stayed in a straight line.

[@Memories-_]

they always do this its so damn annoying

[@magisteerium132]

Both cars drifted.

[@neilmc5704]

Zig-Zagging down the runway so the driver can have a smother ride is not ideal during a drag race!

[@magisteerium132]

+Neil Mc We all knew that already though.

[@armando_alves]

Did anyone think of the fact that maybe they increased the distance between them for safety reasons? Surely driving almost door to door at over 100 mph is very safe.

[@lambosuperl]

I'm so pleased that both cars we're manual

[@aglaycock1]

I don't really get that. Although it is bounced around a lot on these videos. This is a battle of machines. If one has a much more powerful engine or a completely different type of engine it is perfectly fine. As soon as you add a brilliant bit of technology like a DSG gearbox everyone goes mad and says it is unfair.....Unfair? how?

[@Some0ne001]

+Adam Laycock it's because an engine doesn't make a car the drivetrain as a whole does. Transmissions are huge in cars. You know ford and Chevy puts the same v8's in their off road trucks and their big SUV'S but yet the transmissions in each separate it from being an off road vehicle or a road vehicle.

[@aglaycock1]

I'm not sure you got the tone of my message. I'm well aware of the scenario, i'm an engine designer. I am saying that I don't understand why people in these videos complain if they put a DSG car vs a manual car in a drag race. Yes the DSG is better. That is a pro for that car. It isn't unfair. Nobody complains that one car is more powerful than the other and should be derated to match so it is "fair". But the gearbox seems to be moaned about all the time, trying to get them to put 2 manuals against one another instead of showcasing the pinnacle options of each car.

[@jamesfilosa6277]

WE'RE means WE ARE

[@aglaycock1]

James Filosa ......Did you reply to the wrong thread?

[@fcgodftw]

Nice video. However, I'd like to point out that, performance numbers on paper do not necessarly match reality. Put them both on a dyno and you'll come to realize that the Golf is probably underrated from factory which means it's true horsepower figures are higher than claimed, resulting in a much smaller gap in performance. They usually do this on their diesel engines and I wouldn't be surprised their gasoline engines are the same. FocusRS dyno runs are ranging from 280 to 300whp but I havent researched Golf's numbers.

[@SmiFF_]

Finally, a focus RS that is not blue. I thought it was the only color available for it :))

[@Robin-Rhys]

So... DSG Golf R?

[@foodley123]

Would defo beat the RS

[@carsaregood911]

I'd love to see that!

[@johanbenade8885]

Wouldn't really be fair would it.

[@Kaisuke971]

I'm not sure if the R would win, because here the RS didn't seem to have activated its launch control system. Even if the Golf R would be advantaged at every gear change, the RS still seems to accelerate quicker. If anything it could be a perfect tie really.

[@carsaregood911]

Kaisuke971 The RS definitely was using LC, you can hear the car bouncing from the LC limiter

[@mrwick7961]

the golf was catchin near the end there

[@bantu3187]

Gotta catch 'em all

[@massiveglove2960]

Watch til the end of the video - the golf is faster by 130mph

[@alstound]

By the time the R catches up, you've already shredded your license, unless you're in the Autobahn.

[@TheBronze33]

Yes, golf will take the lead when the focus run out of fuel.

[@Bluespaceboat]

TheBronze33 which seeing as the focus was at half tank and the golf was at full tank would be soon. It’s not like weight matters in a race.

[@antoinepageau8336]

The real question is how many launches can each clutch handle before giving up in a cloud of smoke? Although I know the RS will hold a better resale value than the Golf, I prefer the more subtle look of the R.

[@julienjjj]

The Focus RS is on pilot spot cups 2. Slap the same tire model on both cars and compare again. Street legal R compound vs regular summer tires is quite unfair.

[@vernonprice5986]

Are you stupid? Did you listen to the video? They launched the golf r at redline and it BOGGED. CLEARLY TRACTION IS NOT THE PROBLEM.

[@VAspeed3]

Vernon Price: Awesome! Finally somebody who pays attention.

[@julienjjj]

Yet at 1:38 You see the wheels spin quite a lot

[@vernonprice5986]

julienjjj They barely spun at all, that was in super slow motion, and then the engine bogged. The Focus's wheels spun even more than the Golf R's did, and again, that was in super slow motion which means they were actually only spinning for a fraction of a second. They do show you the full speed version, and it's very obvious that the wheels only spin on the initial clutch drop, and only for a fraction of a second. This is true for all car launches, including the GT-R. There is always some wheelspin as the ECU attempts to hold the tires at the limit of grip. But in the Golf's case it just bogged even launching from redline, which means the tires are not the problem and traction is not an issue.

[@mred9161]

Wrong, the RS wears pilot super sports not cups.

[@christopherstorm83]

there have been mentions that the Manual Golf R has quite short gearing so it kept up with the RS beyond the initial launch because of gearing and probably slightly less weight than the RS too

[@bv2146]

I've driven both and I was so impressed with the golf r but the focus was on another level. The RS could literally handle any speed you go on corners. I'll take the RS anyday

[@luckyrYtArd]

Same here I test drove the golf R but still went to get the RS LOL

[@Phanex]

Never driven one but seen plenty of videos and reviews, il take the rs anyday. Trying some crypto trading rn, if it works out il buy one and put some mountune on it

[@ErwinSchrodinger64]

With a drag race this close it would of been interesting to see a rolling start to remove the variable of launching (or launch control). I wonder whether the Golf-R would of beat the Focus RS in that case. Furthermore, I was surprised at the end of the race. With the RS having that much power, I would of thought that's where it would just plummeted the Golf-R. Overall, with the sophistication in traction control systems, transmissions, and turbos, raw numbers in HP/Torque aren't enough.

[@ALMX5DP]

I'm sure gearing and aerodynamics start to come into play after the 1/4 mile mark, not to mention the Germans propensity to underrate their true power levels.

[@superjervis]

The engine has more power,factor in drivetrain loss from the 4wd and the whp would be pretty similar,so nothing to do with Germans underrating their power bullshit

[@ALMX5DP]

The Opinionator The OP said they were surprised with the end result, believing that the Focus should have pulled more of a lead than it did (being that it has 50+hp and 60+TQ over the Golf). While I dont know what the true wheel hp numbers are for each, for the Golf to maintain its deficit to the Focus between the 1/4 and 1/2 mile, it has to be doing something better either aerodynamically, gearing or power.

[@shaft9000]

Focus is rated on overboost; that's why

[@ALMX5DP]

shaft9000 So what are you saying, overboost ran out?

[@kesi3606]

heavy european bias in the video and comment section "Ford has more horsepower BUT..." "Ford won the race BUT..." And VW did better then expected? no VW did exactly as expected. The cars are close in HP and they did close in the race. 50hp in the car world isn't a big difference. And more hp doesn't equate to more speed. There are MANY factors that go into making a fast car. This race went EXACTLY as expected.

[@Malc180s]

Little man American syndrome? The only bias here is your own. Both cars are European anyway. The only American models Ford sells are the ones only sold in America.

[@kesi3606]

I'm not American. and where is my bias? all I stated is facts. btw I know euro cars are better generally. But there is some clear bias for a vw car that lost the race.

[@Thesaltyseafish]

because the VW is the better car.

[@Cykoid]

no way in hell the vw is a better car, unreliable and chintzy

[@Loopsrainforest]

& Ford is?

[@bradleyclark6970]

Should of used a DSG!

[@jrzez]

Not as fun, nor similar enough.

[@fcgodftw]

Should have not should of.

[@julienjjj]

No fuck given about an autobox.

[@wordpress4373]

but the focus is manual, why would golf be dsg then if comparable race is wanted?

[@Porschelover456]

because it has 2.3 l engine, 50 horsepower more and 70lb of torque more.

[@JPWest020]

In reality the R is the quickest car - when fitted with the DSG. And more usable as a daily.

[@chillisauce6079]

In reality it didn't have the DSG fitted and got beat. Stick a DSG in the Focus and it'll be quicker than the Golf. Both cars are equally as usable as a daily.

[@JPWest020]

@@chillisauce6079 The RS is hard as a rock suspension-wise. It will drive you nuts after a while. Don’t ask me how I know;-) There is a reason I now own a R😃 Plus there’s no DSG option for the RS. The new ST does have a automatic option - not sure if it’s a double clutch box.

[@asifnoaman8978]

and absolutely boring and driven by absolute melts

[@carnut9193]

VW group cars are in another league these days, real world performance.

[@jrzez]

Pretty telling then of how special the RS is then being a better car all around in real world performance.

[@its_EZ]

Yeah do now a test around the track, you can even use the dsg. The focus will smoke the golf r.

[@edturners]

LOL

[@MyMindLikestoWander]

Cope

[@KubrickS163]

I got excited every time I saw EVO posting new cars go head to head..... until I clicked on it and realized the video was 2mins long and was ALL about a drag race. Oh well.

[@SilverShux]

DSG R any day over the RS

[@mcspikesky]

Learn to driving pleasure bro

[@SilverShux]

mcspikesky I have a 190E Evo for that thanks.

[@dublinairportplanes]

But the RS is Much better drivers car then literary every hot hatchback out there, ford knows how to make the RS dance in the corners something be can't compete with

[@dublinairportplanes]

But I respect your opinion golf R is a great car overall

[@zakelwe]

And with no argument why it is this proves to be just a post filling up the internet with more 0's and 1's. Nice work.

[@YachtReport]

Look on any drag race video on KZbin and then read the comments and it will be full of people who like the lying car saying it was unfair. EVERY video. Doesn't matter if one has more power and one is lighter, or one has the or that. Bottom line is they are direct competitors in the market place and it's what each company has produced. So from that point of view it's a fair race.

[@YachtReport]

*losing

[@Ash-928]

I miss the Volvo 5 cylinder from the previous Focus, they had an awesome sound.

[@Mish93Will]

The golf 7 gti and R range has been known to make more than it's claimed power. I used to work at a tuning company and alot of tuners were claiming these cars to make their engine claimed power and maybe even a little more at the wheels.

[@makeminealarge1]

The Golf R really should be fitted with the 5 cylinder Audi engine

[@souheib9343]

Amen to that!

[@LivingLifeSlower]

If I was VW I'd start with sorting out their build quality first. My Mk7 Golf was shocking.

[@Parabloop3r]

Next gen may use a twin-turbo VR6. I'd say that'd be good enough.

[@jch0707]

+Martin Allen huh? build quality? Maybe you were referring to the Ford. golf 7 has been very well received..car of the year recipient from motor trend, etc..

[@allymaitland3141]

Does the world need any more pumped up yokels in RS3s?

[@ut2k4wikichici]

nice to see manual vs manual in drag pretty rare sight these days

[@zed4me]

Not surprised but I'll take my Golf R any day of the week.

[@luckyrYtArd]

@Nims A but was driven by the car tho not the driver...

[@magisterartium]

wow amazing stuff from the golf. That DSG golf must be a fast little rocket.

[@christosswc]

Obviously another case of a German car pumping out more HP than the manufacturer claims.

[@eugenehvorostyanov2409]

Some dyno proof?

[@Slash396]

Don't really need dyno proof. VAG especially is notorious for underrating the performance of their engines and cars.

[@eugenehvorostyanov2409]

Slash396 Not true. Just checked APR website and they dynoed mk7 Golf R at 294 hp, stock.

[@86Digilio]

golf r makes power all over the Rev range compared to the focus. also a dp and sage two tune gets you approx 100 hp and tq with the golf, where as I've heard the focus doesn't have much left in the engine to tune. just saying.

[@Slash396]

Eugene Hvorostyanov Exactly my point. VW claims 292 hp at the crank and it puts down 294 to the wheels.

[@darrencol]

As well as the standing start races, I would also like to see you do rolling starts as well from 2nd gear for example. I think that would make for a better comparison, especially when cars are driven by different wheels.

[@iPhone4ever]

Golf is the better all day car! Give him some Chip Juice and its gone!!!

[@Some0ne001]

+Greenest Dreamer ehh not really, the ford's (St focus and RS) are already tuned to the max and there isn't much room to put more boost in the turbos. that's one of the big reasons I got my mk7 VW GTI over the Focus ST, I can double my horsepower in my gti from 201 to 403 horse power with stage 2 mods where the ST was boosted already to 18PSI and any more would blow the turbo, but with stage 2 on the ST you gain about 40 Horse power.

[@Some0ne001]

Greenest Dreamer wait one minute the stock focus ST pushes 21psi for the boost....anyways beside the point yes the ST is an awesome car but when it comes to tuning the VW GTI mk7 has a lot more to gain than the ST. I've got the Golf R turbo coming next month and will be putting it I'm my GTI and with the APR tune with the is38 turbo it would be pushing about 407 crank horse power 360 wheels and about 402 ft/lbs which is about 340 to the wheels. Wish I would have gotten an R tho.....I could go stage 3 and get 522 hp with the golf GTI too with stock internals other than the turbo, but at that point any car with a bigger turbo will be more powerful. Heck the golf R stage 2 does 0-60 in 3.6-3.5 seconds.

[@teechy2339]

how when they're both meant for daily use, for me focus rs wins if you want a daily car

[@savannahkorben7353]

@ katch22H it's the opposite bro, the RS is really stiff and the interior sucks compared to the R. for daily driving in the real world the R wins hands down. Around a track the RS is probably more fun and a little faster, but how often are we taking our hatchbacks to the track?

[@savannahkorben7353]

Greenest Dreamer Go sit in a Golf R and you'll understand. It feels like a BMW/Audi, really really nice. The Golf R is no slouch in the twisties, people seem to be forgetting that it tests close to the RS in things like figure 8/slalom/skidpad. Your average driver won't know or be able to discern the difference between the two.

[@ivandoe33]

I never liked VW, but check 1:46, and you can clearly see that focus starts a bit earlier. Guys, repeat the race until both starts the same and both drive straight forward without going sideways, or get pro gear and measure times.

[@ivandoe33]

Focus 1/3 petrol, Golf full, weight difference in petrol ~30kg?!?

[@JamesGIlart]

GOLF R + DSG = bye bye focus. But is more fair boht manuals, its true...

[@Some0ne001]

yet the Ford had a 1/2 tank of gas and the golf R a full tank.......

[@2008JISL]

very Good Point

[@2008JISL]

What is not fair is that focus has 50 bhp more, so lets do a stage 1 tune and try the race again with same BHP on both, although the focus engine is bigger..

[@layoutman69]

don't need to, just get the ""the hottest hatch"" VW makes. The R with DSG, Takes the advantage of the Ford away. It's a half sec faster than the manual.l

[@Wilson84KS]

Lol, but after the first bend = bye bye golf, see you in the next life.

[@shouldigetit]

Would be really interesting with the DSG

[@marcotuliomoreira1899]

Golf R 'll win easily. Golf R DSG do 1/4 mile in 13.1 sec. Look Motor Trend Channel drag race 5 and Top Gear Channel.

[@SnakiePlays]

I still prefer that beautiful VW Golf R :)

[@carsaregood911]

yea and the rs looks like a catfish from the front, boy racer bullshit

[@davidrowley6500]

Boring bland looking golf 🥱

[@edturners]

@@davidrowley6500 Golf is quality though and has a certain class the RS could only dream about. The RS just looks like a boy racer car which is unfortunate.

[@davidrowley6500]

@@edturners I'll stick to drivers car you stick to your "classy" golf

[@davidrowley6500]

@@edturners I'll stick to drivers car you stick to your "classy" golf

[@jaimusicxx]

Brilliant comparison - thank you!

[@imaginative-monkey]

Now that the performance results are very close, let me say that Focus RS is much more attractive! ;-)

[@jigsterify]

you need glasses it looks like cheap crap compared to german class

[@InitialDAmine]

Wow ! the most powerful car won, such a suprise, still the Golf R is a hero being that close despite the power and torque difference is impressive, heck the golf is even faster overall if you don't consider the launch, the number speaks for them selves

[@hvf26]

no shit the focus is going to be faster. shouldve used a dsg golf to make it more interesting.

[@massiveglove2960]

It wasn't faster. Watch til the end of the video

[@AboveInShadow]

The Golf R was catching up quickly.

[@hvf26]

in terms of pricing, the dsg golf is closer to the focus than the manual

[@AboveInShadow]

hvf26 True and both cost almost the same and that's with the VW (DSG included).

[@RicHSAD2]

Here in Canada, the Focus RS starts at roughly 8k more than the Golf R. That makes the DSG Golf R both cheaper and faster than the RS. Not to mention that it has a much better interior and the VW brand just has more class than Ford.

[@fedjadrndarski5606]

Finally honest comparison. Great drag race.

[@T.A.C.S.94]

Shock! more powerful car wins drag race!!!

[@meady200]

Actually a more powerful car could easily lose. What about weight, drag coefficient, gearing and how grippy the tyres are? So I found the video quite interesting.

[@magisteerium132]

You know nothing about cars, do you.

[@mituc]

If it was a rolling race, given the long gearing of the RS (the weight is not that much more, 30-50kg), I would have feared for the RS. And this comes from a Ford/Mazda fan who hates the guts out of failwagen and other hypocrites like them. Actually the RS will loose in a roll race from anywhere above 20mph up to a typeR or cupra (another well built failwagen, probably because it's built by humans with more soul and not primates which only care for 0 and 1 matters).

[@neilmc5704]

shock, the cheaper can won!

[@ponygt6629]

Victor Tarhon-Onu See I am a Ford guy, drives the Fiesta ST, but I hate to say it, VWs TSI is better than Fords ecoboost, the new range of TSI revv to an un TSI like 6800 rpm and it makes power all the way from 2000-5500 rpm and still dosent fall short like the ecoboost post 5500 rpm The Fords ecoboost engines make lot of power between 2000-5500 rpm, but post 5500 it drops down so low that it makes more engine noise but way less progress unlike TSI and Type R engine which keep on making power, so despite being a Ford guy I lll admit VWs TSI is better

[@kaylinclaudepillay268]

Not bad Golf R...i Guess a clever motor pays off...Wish you guys did a roll on drag race. Golf R also has Full tank Fuel

[@sparkplug964]

That is impressive performance by the Golf, I really thought the RS would wipe the floor to the Golf R in a straight line, but it was very close.

[@chele089]

Would have been interesting to see what the available DSG in the Golf could have done here, since the VW basically only lost time launching and shifting. It would be apples to oranges but I'd still be interested to see how a dual-clutch could make up for that power disparity.

[@steveyknoxville]

The DSG IS MUCH QUICKER. I think it would have won...

[@interceptorm5]

Is it just me or Focus drifted to the left quite a bit, travelling longer and allowed VW to catch up? Maybe that's just cat's and mouse game. Still RS is a Monster!

[@cbcsmithers]

Thanks Dan, nice vid

[@ra55575]

Golf R has class. Some thing the ford can't even dream about.

[@kamilb8232]

This isn't a Mercedes. It's a VW. It has as much class as their diesels are clean and "green."

[@carsaregood911]

Some of us have

[@ra55575]

+Andrew Kim yes I agree it's not the norm to find hot hatch and class together. Buttt the VW is exactly that.

[@Kaisuke971]

The Focus RS oversteers (and i'm not talking about drift mode), something the VW can't even dream about #AudiSteering.

[@dimosk7389]

yes, yes. every Golf has class when waiting outside the dealership to repair YET another problem

[@1989rs500]

dear EVO we need a track battle between Type R and Focus RS, pleaaase...

[@ripcityrc8974]

I like turtles

[@nickk222m2c]

Me too

[@ThatGuyInVegas]

Maybe it's because the RS was a 2016, but narration at 1:56 "the Ford by 100 miles an hour there's nothing in it worth taking 12.4 seconds" that's no longer true in the 2017. I just got the 2017 this weekend; just testing it out I went 60 to 120 mph in mine effortlessly in no time at all. Before I let off the gas it was obvious my car would have easily climbed well past that before tapering off, the car is still stock, my mod kit hasn't arrived yet.

[@sophiemarino]

Golf R with DSG will beat the Ford

[@klemens4876]

sophiemarino focus isnt built for the straigt line

[@meganjay30]

i have had a few races with those new vw polo manuals and always seam to be able to pull away from them... but the polo is heavier but is a 1.8T... my FiST is still 100% stock standard but won't be soon.. 😊

[@miguelhernandez-vv5cx]

goodbay golf

[@SW0000A]

Definitely not a great comparison if you want accurate results. both cars need approximately the same amount of fuel and driver's need to weigh similar. The Focus also comes with track oriented tires while the R comes with standard summer. You also need to do more than one run. I also want to see a second R with a dsg to see if that changes anything. I can't ascertain much from this race aside from the fact that these cars are similar in performance. I wonder what the Ford is doing with extra 50hp. It must have the same power delivery issues as the st.

[@Wallstreetavarice]

Those time differences are indeed small, but if they were between a McLaren and a Ferrari you'd proudly congratulate the winner. I could care less about drag races, so i agree with what you said, i just think you should maintain that stance across the board

[@iiPersoniq]

Dan, Will you planning the drag with Facelifted 2017 Golf R 7 SPEED DSG in 2017 against the Focus RS also a Bedford Aerodrome track test as you did with the Audi RS3

[@gaycha6589]

Drag race vs real driving. DSG is the fair comparison since vast majority of Golf Rs are speced with DSG. Having run a modest Unicorn chipped R with DSG for 2 years now, this video shows me that I have nothing to fear from the NKOTB RS in EITHER bragging rights, street or track performance. In fact I feel quite cocky ...

[@SS8000cars]

What an incredible car the R is, this is Ford's best shot and the motoring world has been eulogising about the RS for months. Only just beat the R and the R was faster 0-130mph. OMG!! R better all-rounder I would wager.

[@skepta5499]

Best Shot?? Are you forgetting the Ford GT

[@l1qu1dm3t4lIV]

Why did it seem like the race wasnt straight? Looks like the Focus was veering away from the Golf? Was this deviation of a straight line equal to both parties?

[@nhoff7703]

Wasn't the VW tuned to work with its DSG gearbox? Lets see a rematch!

[@jbiv1971]

I think it was Car and Driver that said the Golf R is .5 seconds faster with a automatic transmission. I wish they used one for this race.

[@souheib9343]

Maybe the Golf should've had half a fuel tank as well (wouldn't really make that much diffrence). But I'm amazed to realise the Golf is the middle of its life.

[@BlackenedNL]

I would go for the Focus RS

[@Yechizzle]

Wonder how it would do with a DSG golf

[@kubanskiloewe]

that Focus is a much better track performer than on drag strip ! On a track it destroys the Golf with ease. And it has a nice drift program :D

[@massiveglove2960]

Interesting and surprising result

[@mat77111]

Should have used a DSG Golf R to make up for the horsepower & torque difference. Most R’s out there are DSG and are blindingly quick off the line.

[@Zystus]

Wait... You guys didn't even use launch control on the RS which launches at 5k RPM and the RS went sideways for some reason so that's some time off as well.... Please re-test with Launch control and go straight this time.

[@shinysideup2134]

Probably the aerodynamic drag over 110mph that makes the Ford slow down.

[@kieranhendy]

I'll never understand anyone who chooses to buy an R with a manual. GTI, sure, R, definately suits the DSG more. Also, Mk7's have issues with their clutch slipping in the manuals so all things considered just take the DSG - the R is effectively made to have a DSG - manual is an afterthought for VW.

[@justchilling9442]

Mmm Golf R with DSG launch control plus give it a remap to the same HP and let's see the race.

[@davids1816]

It would have been interesting to have had the Golf R with a DSG to see if that makes up for the power-difference.

[@fabianbarnett2475]

I wonder what the result will be with the Honda Type R of the Ford Focus?

[@leeedens9497]

So, the RS maybe the fastest manual hot hatch, but the R may just be the best overall hot hatch, to be fair the Focus is currently one of the oldest platforms and the Golf being one of the newest, the RS has a better awd system, the R gives you a choice of DCT or manual, the R interior is nicer, but at the end of the day it's which one is the best hot hatch and the performances doesn't lie, the RS is crazy and while there's no DCT available, imagine if there was, there’s a new gen Focus coming, one can only hope Ford been paying attention to the competition, meaning the gen next Focus RS needs, a nice interior, more interior space, a choice of transmissions (manual yes, but DCT should be an option) and etc, note the R’s DCT is at least .5 secs quicker to 60 than the manual R

[@destruxandexploze2552]

So is the Golf R bogging down when dropping the clutch due to traction control?

[@Phatphatyo]

Makes you wonder if the DSG would make up the minor time difference, even though I too side with the nostalgic 6-speed. Super well put together comparison, even if I’m an R fanboy and it lost.

[@slideways8022]

DSG changed the game completely, the RS struggles to keep up. Those dual clutches are mental, coming from an RS fan

[@Phatphatyo]

@@slideways8022 I just saw my comment was 3 years ago. I’ve got a golf R now. 😎😎 dsg. Love it. I still miss my old gti manny but for speed the dsg takes it every time.

[@slideways8022]

@@Phatphatyo Nice! good on ya. Now what bank to i rob to afford a Cosworth these days...

[@NZsarge1]

That is closer than I thought it would be

[@johnallen4615]

Needed the traction control off in the golf to stop it bogging down with manual transmission

[@GroppaRacing]

That's the power of German engineering...

[@motorrecon200]

From the Ford which is engineered and made in Germany to. Both great cars but id take the RS.

[@Vickersyt]

With black colour and black wheels focus looks absolutely amazing :DD

[@dannycpies4378]

Who cares if the DSG is fractions of a second faster? Would you really sacrifice your manhood for the sake of an automatic? Is a split second really more important than your dignity? Maybe I shouldn't be asking these questions though, considering VW owners don't seem to really care about the manhood aspect.

[@Tobore]

With a DSG, it would be a different story. Trust me. Put the Golf in Racing Mode, this is when you can forget about the ordinary Golf R, pulling every trick out of the hat. The steering wheel gets much heavier and the car revs to 68-69 rpm, changing gears instantly. The car takes a soundtrack of a V8 and always in the correct gear no matter what you do. The DSG is in the right power band, ready to deliver and the traction control is now in it's sportiness settings, allowing you to put the power down in and out of bends. I've taken the piss out of M3's, new shape or old, they didn't bother, yes the car has only has 300bhp but trust me, it's the most usable 300bhp you will ever need. This car takes Hot-Hatch to a whole new extreme, with 4 doors, 4 exhaust and 4 wheel-drive, it can be the ultimate all in one package and everything you could ever ask for in a car. Overall I really do love my Golf R, I like how it stays humble and disguise itself as a normal Golf, blend in traffic on it's way to work, then on your way home you can terrorise faster and more expensive cars down some B roads.

[@Flayerito212]

I know which is faster but history and quality I prefer the Golf GTI lifetime. Although I do not deny that the Focus RS holds its own. And I miss you compare it to the Civic TYPE R

[@Ryanshaw6778]

Love the RS it's aggression is insane has amazing traction aswell

[@katanamast279]

Why is the Golf R steering to the right? Wouldnt that make the time slower?

[@JasonB2025]

With an APR Stage 1 software upgrade the Golf will produce 350whp and 360+wtq.

[@Gandalf606]

The RS though looks a lot more interesting than the Golf. And I've been a fan of VW Golfs - have had three - a Mk2 GTI-16v (brilliant and best), Mk3 VR6, Mk4 GT TDI, plus I've had a Fiesta XR2, two Peugeot 205 GTi's - both 1.6 and 1.9, and a couple of Ford Focus STs. For me, if I was looking for an affordable and attractive looking hatchback these days, I'd consider the new Polo GTi. For me, the new shape harks back to the Mk1 and Mk2 Golfs - similar size, similar good looking profile. And it's much more interesting to look at than the rather dumpy looking Golf these days.

[@Gandalf606]

Intersting - this test seems to support the notion that weight can be a bigger factor than power i.e. 50 less kg or 50 extra bhp? Which one is easier to achieve? Weight saving needs to be a part of the core design - like the new Alpine proves. For the amateur fettler, saving weight is probably harder and more expensive than increasing power ...

[@LivingLifeSlower]

I noticed on the Superchips plot that the new RS they developed their tune on was producing significantly less than advertised power. Add to that most VAG cars produce more than quoted, I'd put money on this gap being the difference between drivers. Irrespective - I was stung once by the Mk7 Rs build quality so won't buy again.

[@massiveglove2960]

Your second comment regarding build quality - what was the issue? Thanks

[@robertchalmers8487]

why didn't they use the launch control on the DSG?

[@HybridBoy0]

the AWD system in the golf are too front biased, when it launches the front tires spins too much. the rear axle isnt getting enough power to compensate the loss of traction in the front due to weight shift.

[@superjervis]

You can send more power to the rear wheels on the Focus ST

[@eltingville81]

I'm surprised EVO allowed a European car to lose.

[@miklar19711]

The Golf R is $10000 dollars cheaper in Canada! $450 Neuspeed Power Module and away we go! Also undetectable so no warranty issues! Plus DSG kills! Also I guess because the dsg beats it we will have to not count every time the GTR beats everything out there!

[@Rolo_McFlurry]

I wish you'd post speed along with the elapsed time for your drag race videos