2003 Acura RSX vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura RSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura RSX would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Acura RSX. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 103 kg more than 2003 Acura RSX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX. 2006 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2003 Acura RSX has manual transmission. 2003 Acura RSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Acura RSX 2006 Volkswagen Golf
Make Acura Volkswagen
Model RSX Golf
Year Released 2003 2006
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 1966 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 160 HP 168 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 191 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 95.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.8:1 18.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1222 kg 1325 kg
Vehicle Length 4380 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2540 mm 2580 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 7.8 L/100km 5.9 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 55 L