1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Honda Accord
To start off, 2012 Honda Accord 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Accord (271 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Accord 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, 2012 Honda Accord (340 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2012 Honda Accord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Honda Accord 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. 2012 Honda Accord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Honda |
| Model | Golf | Accord |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1849 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1433 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2741 mm |
