1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2013 Ford Mustang 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Mustang (301 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2013 Ford Mustang 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 2013 Ford Mustang. 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, 2013 Ford Mustang (380 Nm) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2013 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Golf | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4778 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2035 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2720 mm |
