1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan is newer by 9 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 3,188 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Multivan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 1139 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.
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, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan (315 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Multivan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2006 Volkswagen Multivan | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Multivan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 3188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 2299 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3010 mm |
