1998 Renault Clio vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Renault Clio. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Renault Clio would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (84 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1998 Renault Clio. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Renault Clio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 476 kg more than 1998 Renault Clio. 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 Volkswagen Golf (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Renault Clio. (114 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Renault Clio.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Renault Clio | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | Clio | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 84 HP |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 11.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 5.6 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.8 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
