2001 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 246 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
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 (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2324 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4246 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1782 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2578 mm |
