1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2003 Acura RSX
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 7 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
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 Acura RSX (191 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2003 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Acura RSX has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2003 Acura RSX | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Acura |
| Model | Golf | RSX |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2540 mm |
