1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 17 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze (134 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze 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, 2013 Chevrolet Cruze (201 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2013 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze 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. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Golf | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2685 mm |
