1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan is newer by 9 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), 2005 Volkswagen Multivan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 1139 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2005 Volkswagen Multivan (310 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Multivan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan 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. 2005 Volkswagen Multivan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2005 Volkswagen Multivan | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Multivan |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 3187 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 2299 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 3010 mm |
