1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Hyundai ix20
To start off, 2011 Hyundai ix20 is newer by 14 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 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Hyundai ix20 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Hyundai ix20 (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Hyundai ix20 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Hyundai ix20 weights approximately 220 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, 2011 Hyundai ix20 (260 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2011 Hyundai ix20 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Hyundai ix20 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Hyundai |
| Model | Golf | ix20 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 77.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2615 mm |
