1997 Jeep Wrangler 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 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 219 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 1997 Jeep Wrangler (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
| Model | Wrangler | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2590 mm |
