1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Scion FR-S
To start off, 2013 Scion FR-S 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Scion FR-S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Scion FR-S (199 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Scion FR-S should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2013 Scion FR-S 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 Scion FR-S. 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 Scion FR-S (205 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2013 Scion FR-S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2013 Scion FR-S 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 Scion FR-S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Scion FR-S | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Scion |
| Model | Golf | FR-S |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 199 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2570 mm |
