1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Chevrolet Kalos
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Kalos is newer by 15 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Kalos. (82 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Kalos. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 105 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Kalos. 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 (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Kalos. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Kalos.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Chevrolet Kalos | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Golf | Kalos |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 13.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
