1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Porsche Cayenne
To start off, 2012 Porsche Cayenne 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche Cayenne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche Cayenne (245 HP) has 131 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche Cayenne should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Porsche Cayenne weights approximately 905 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.
Because 2012 Porsche Cayenne is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Porsche Cayenne will offer significantly more control. 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 Porsche Cayenne (550 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Porsche Cayenne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Porsche Cayenne | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Porsche |
| Model | Golf | Cayenne |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 245 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 7.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 2080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4846 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1939 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1705 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2896 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 100 L |
