1996 Rover 200 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Rover 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Rover 200 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Rover 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1996 Rover 200. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Rover 200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 37 kg more than 1996 Rover 200. 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Rover 200. (185 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Rover 200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Rover 200 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Rover | Volkswagen |
| Model | 200 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2590 mm |
