1997 De Tomaso Guara vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 De Tomaso Guara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 De Tomaso Guara would be higher. At 3,981 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 De Tomaso Guara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 De Tomaso Guara (282 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 De Tomaso Guara should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 De Tomaso Guara weights approximately 15 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 De Tomaso Guara 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 1997 De Tomaso Guara. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1997 De Tomaso Guara (402 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (156 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 De Tomaso Guara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 De Tomaso Guara | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | De Tomaso | Volkswagen |
| Model | Guara | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3981 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 402 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
