1997 Plymouth Neon vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Plymouth Neon is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Plymouth Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Plymouth Neon (131 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Plymouth Neon should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 51 kg more than 1997 Plymouth Neon.
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, 1997 Plymouth Neon (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Plymouth Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Plymouth Neon | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Plymouth | Volkswagen |
| Model | Neon | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1109 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |
