1997 Renault Spider vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Renault Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Renault Spider would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (248 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1997 Renault Spider. (140 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Renault Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 604 kg more than 1997 Renault Spider. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Renault Spider. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Renault Spider. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Renault Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Renault Spider | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.7 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2580 mm |
