2004 Porsche 996 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Porsche 996 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 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (150 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Porsche 996 weights approximately 276 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 2004 Porsche 996 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, 2004 Porsche 996 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, 2004 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (202 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2004 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Porsche 996 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 996 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3596 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
