2002 Subaru Forester vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Subaru Forester is newer by 5 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Subaru Forester is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2002 Subaru Forester. (124 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Subaru Forester. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Forester weights approximately 120 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2002 Subaru Forester is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Forester 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Subaru Forester. (176 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Subaru Forester. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2002 Subaru Forester has manual transmission. 2002 Subaru Forester 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:
| 2002 Subaru Forester | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | Forester | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
