2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (93 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 15 kg more than 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara has manual transmission. 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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:
| 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Grand Vitara | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 55 L |
