1988 Honda Civic vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1988 Honda Civic. (89 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1988 Honda Civic.
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, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Honda Civic. (114 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Honda Civic. 1999 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1988 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 1988 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Honda Civic | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
