1996 Aston Martin Virage vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Aston Martin Virage. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Aston Martin Virage would be higher. At 5,338 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Aston Martin Virage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Aston Martin Virage (344 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Aston Martin Virage should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Aston Martin Virage weights approximately 716 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Aston Martin Virage is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Aston Martin Virage. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 Aston Martin Virage (450 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Aston Martin Virage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Aston Martin Virage | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Aston Martin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Virage | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5338 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 344 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
