1996 Honda Civic vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Honda Civic. (138 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 168 kg more than 1996 Honda Civic. 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Civic. (174 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Civic. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1996 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 1996 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Honda Civic | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
Model | Civic | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1834 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1338 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4220 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2580 mm |