1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Hyundai Equus
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Equus 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Equus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Equus (429 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 314 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Equus should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2012 Hyundai Equus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Hyundai Equus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Hyundai Equus (509 Nm) has 344 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2012 Hyundai Equus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Hyundai Equus 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 Hyundai Equus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Hyundai Equus | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Hyundai |
| Model | Golf | Equus |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 429 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 509 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 5159 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 3045 mm |
