1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 76 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 15.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1189 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
