2003 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2012 Ford Mustang is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Mustang (305 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (103 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Mustang weights approximately 286 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Ford Mustang is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Ford Mustang (379 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Golf | Mustang |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1566 kg |
| Fuel Consumption | 4.3 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 6.5 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
