2004 MG ZR vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 MG ZR is newer by 7 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 MG ZR (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 MG ZR should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 115 kg more than 2004 MG ZR.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 MG ZR. (123 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 MG ZR.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 MG ZR | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | ZR | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
