1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1997 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Sharan.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Sharan (170 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 1997 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 1997 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2840 mm |
