1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2004 Volkswagen Touareg
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Touareg is newer by 8 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 3,187 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Touareg is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Touareg (217 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Touareg should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Touareg is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Touareg will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Touareg (310 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (235 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Touareg will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2004 Volkswagen Touareg | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Touareg |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2801 cc | 3187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2510 mm |
