1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2000 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,552 cc (5 cylinders), 2000 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 485 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Volkswagen Microbus 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 2000 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2000 Volkswagen Microbus (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2000 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2000 Volkswagen Microbus has manual transmission. 2000 Volkswagen Microbus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2000 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2552 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2470 mm |
