1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | GTI |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2578 mm |
