1996 Audi RS2 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi RS2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi RS2 would be higher. At 2,226 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi RS2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi RS2 (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi RS2 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi RS2 weights approximately 440 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Audi RS2 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi RS2 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, 1996 Audi RS2 (410 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Audi RS2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi RS2 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
| Model | RS2 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2226 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 311 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
