1996 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A4 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 142 kg more than 1996 Audi A4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Audi A4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (173 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A4 | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 62 L |
