1997 Toyota Corolla vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota Corolla (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota Corolla should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 206 kg more than 1997 Toyota Corolla.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (150 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corolla | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2578 mm |
