2005 Peugeot 406 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Peugeot 406 is newer by 8 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Peugeot 406 (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 169 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, 2005 Peugeot 406 (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2005 Peugeot 406 has manual transmission. 2005 Peugeot 406 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:
| 2005 Peugeot 406 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Peugeot | Volkswagen |
| Model | 406 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1344 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
