1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan is newer by 16 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), 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan weights approximately 384 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, 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan (281 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Tiguan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1544 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4427 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1809 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1683 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2604 mm |
