2003 Toyota RAV4 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 6 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Toyota RAV4 (145 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 103 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 2003 Toyota RAV4 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, 2003 Toyota RAV4 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, 2003 Toyota RAV4 (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2003 Toyota RAV4 has manual transmission. 2003 Toyota RAV4 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:
2003 Toyota RAV4 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
Model | RAV4 | Golf |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |