1997 Acura EL vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura EL would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Acura EL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura EL (127 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura EL should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 337 kg more than 1997 Acura EL.
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 Golf (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Acura EL | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Acura | Volkswagen |
| Model | EL | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1079 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4478 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1704 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1394 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2619 mm | 2578 mm |
