1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Forte (156 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Forte weights approximately 66 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, 2012 Kia Forte (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2012 Kia Forte has manual transmission. 2012 Kia Forte 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 | 2012 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Kia |
| Model | Golf | Forte |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1241 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
