2005 Saab 03-Sep vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Saab 03-Sep 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saab 03-Sep (148 HP @ 1800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 370 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 Saab 03-Sep (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2005 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2005 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Saab 03-Sep | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 03-Sep | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
