2003 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 387 kg more than 1988 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 Volkswagen Golf (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Golf | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Golf | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1217 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.4 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
