1996 Audi A4 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 16 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 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 199 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.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | A4 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2578 mm |
