1996 Mitsubishi Carisma 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 Mitsubishi Carisma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (103 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma.
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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. (176 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Carisma | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
