1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 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 3,964 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (175 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 228 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 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 (291 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
| Model | Wrangler | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3964 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 98.6 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.6 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
