1997 Hyundai Coupe 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 Hyundai Coupe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Hyundai Coupe would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Coupe. (112 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 143 kg more than 1997 Hyundai Coupe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Hyundai Coupe. (143 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Hyundai Coupe. 2012 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1997 Hyundai Coupe has manual transmission. 1997 Hyundai Coupe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Hyundai Coupe | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Coupe | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2578 mm |
