2003 Mitsubishi Dion vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mitsubishi Dion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mitsubishi Dion would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Dion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Dion (133 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Dion should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Dion weights approximately 151 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2003 Mitsubishi Dion (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Dion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Mitsubishi Dion has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mitsubishi Dion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mitsubishi Dion | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Dion | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1229 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |
