1997 Ford Falcon vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Falcon (301 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Falcon weights approximately 445 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Falcon 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 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 Ford Falcon (515 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 355 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Falcon | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Falcon | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5766 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 515 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1674 kg | 1229 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
