1988 Ford Tempo vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (97 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 165 kg more than 1988 Ford Tempo. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (205 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (175 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Tempo | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tempo | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2520 mm |
