1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 2 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 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (115 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (235 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2801 cc | 1899 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2520 mm |
