Skip advert
Advertisement

Ford Focus RS vs Volkswagen Golf R - which is fastest?

Two four-wheel drive hot hatches battle it out

The Ford Focus RS is perhaps the mega hatch of the moment. With 345bhp sent to all four wheels and launch control, it promises to be very quick off the mark. But then the Volkswagen Golf R is no slouch either. It might be down on power at 297bhp, but the car is still absolutely rapid in a straight line. 

Advertisement - Article continues below

Both cars tested here use a six-speed manual gearbox and both are all-wheel drive. So which is going to be quickest?

>Read our Volkswagen Golf R review

>Read our Ford Focus RS review

evo's Drag Battles were all conducted at Alconbury's Cambridgeshire runway on a dry surface. All cars were supplied from manufacturers' press fleets on standard OEM tyres with the manufacturers were not aware of the tests being conducted. 

If you'd like to learn more about Certina watches, our new Drag Battles timing sponsor, then click here. You could be in with the chance of winning Certina watch of your own.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

How a pointless drive in my neighbour's Volkswagen Golf Mk7 made me a better driver
Volkswagen Golf
Opinion

How a pointless drive in my neighbour's Volkswagen Golf Mk7 made me a better driver

Taking a neighbour’s car for a spin has given Richard Porter a new perspective on driving
25 Jun 2026
Polestar cars banned from sale in the US. Will Lotus be next?
Polestar 5 side
News

Polestar cars banned from sale in the US. Will Lotus be next?

The United States of America has shut the door on Polestar, the Department of Commerce removing the company’s authorisation to sell cars from the 2027…
26 Jun 2026
Subaru Impreza Turbo (1994-2000) review – an affordable modern classic rally icon
Subaru Impreza Turbo rear
Reviews

Subaru Impreza Turbo (1994-2000) review – an affordable modern classic rally icon

We knew the Subaru Impreza Turbo was special when it was new. The years haven't dulled this Japanese icon's appeal
28 Jun 2026