1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 703 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Golf | 2002 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1292 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
