2001 Honda Civic vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Honda Civic is newer by 4 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 1,672 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Honda Civic (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 314 kg more than 2001 Honda Civic.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Honda Civic. (144 Nm). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Honda Civic | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Civic | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1672 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 846 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2470 mm |
