1997 Toyota Corolla vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 139 kg more than 1997 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (120 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Toyota Corolla | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corolla | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1332 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
