1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 16 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 34 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (138 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.
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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (200 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Golf | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2801 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2685 mm |
