1996 Hyundai Elantra 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 Hyundai Elantra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Hyundai Elantra 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 67 more horse power than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 105 kg more than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. 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 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. (166 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Hyundai Elantra. 1996 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Hyundai Elantra | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elantra | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1233 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2580 mm |
