2001 Hyundai Matrix vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Hyundai Matrix is newer by 3 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2001 Hyundai Matrix. (81 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2001 Hyundai Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 2 kg more than 2001 Hyundai Matrix. 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 2001 Hyundai Matrix. 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, 2001 Hyundai Matrix (183 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Hyundai Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Hyundai Matrix | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matrix | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1495 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
