1997 Porsche Boxster vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Porsche Boxster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche Boxster would be higher. At 2,480 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Porsche Boxster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Porsche Boxster (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Porsche Boxster should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 46 kg more than 1997 Porsche Boxster.
Because 1997 Porsche Boxster is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Porsche Boxster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Porsche Boxster (245 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Porsche Boxster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Porsche Boxster | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | Boxster | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2480 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2520 mm |
