2005 Ford Fiesta vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Ford Fiesta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Fiesta (101 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 48 kg more than 1996 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, 2005 Ford Fiesta (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Fiesta | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1208 kg | 1160 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
