2001 Volkswagen Microbus vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Microbus 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 2,553 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 485 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Volkswagen Microbus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Volkswagen Microbus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Volkswagen Microbus (201 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Microbus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Microbus has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Microbus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen Microbus | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Microbus | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2470 mm |
