2002 Honda Z vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Honda Z 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (103 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2002 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 270 kg more than 2002 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Honda Z is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Honda Z 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Z. (60 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda Z | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Z | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 656 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
