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 2,464 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Jeep Wrangler (122 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 111 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler will offer significantly more control. 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 (193 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 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 | 2464 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.3 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
