1996 Chrysler Cirrus vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chrysler Cirrus would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chrysler Cirrus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chrysler Cirrus weights approximately 329 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus (230 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1996 Chrysler Cirrus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1996 Chrysler Cirrus has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chrysler Cirrus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chrysler Cirrus | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cirrus | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
