1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Ford Fusion

To start off, 2010 Ford Fusion is newer by 14 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Ford Fusion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Ford Fusion (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Ford Fusion 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, 2010 Ford Fusion (233 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2010 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2010 Ford Fusion 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. 2010 Ford Fusion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Volkswagen Golf 2010 Ford Fusion
Make Volkswagen Ford
Model Golf Fusion
Year Released 1996 2010
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1896 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 115 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 165 Nm 233 Nm
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Length 4080 mm 4841 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1834 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1445 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 2728 mm