2004 Toyota Previa vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Toyota Previa 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 2,362 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Toyota Previa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota Previa (157 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota Previa should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Toyota Previa weights approximately 450 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.
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, 2004 Toyota Previa (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 Toyota Previa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Toyota Previa | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Previa | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2362 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
