1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 13 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 45 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, 2010 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (195 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | GTI |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1331 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
