1997 Ford Mustang vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Mustang (590 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 476 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 354 kg more than 1997 Ford Mustang.

Because 1997 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Mustang (728 Nm) has 558 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm). This means 1997 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Ford Mustang 2008 Volkswagen Golf
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Mustang Golf
Year Released 1997 2008
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5400 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 590 HP 114 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 728 Nm 170 Nm
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 930 kg 1284 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1740 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2520 mm


 

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