1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Toyota Tacoma
To start off, 2013 Toyota Tacoma 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 2,700 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Toyota Tacoma (157 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Toyota Tacoma should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2013 Toyota Tacoma 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 Toyota Tacoma. 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 Toyota Tacoma (244 Nm) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 2013 Toyota Tacoma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2013 Toyota Tacoma 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 Toyota Tacoma will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Toyota |
| Model | Golf | Tacoma |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.7 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 5286 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1835 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 3246 mm |
