1996 Honda Civic vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Honda Civic (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 263 kg more than 1996 Honda Civic.
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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Civic. (144 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Honda Civic | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1293 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
