2005 Toyota Highlander vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Toyota Highlander 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 2,358 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2005 Toyota Highlander. (160 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 462 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2005 Toyota Highlander 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, 2005 Toyota Highlander 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 (225 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Toyota Highlander. (224 Nm). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Toyota Highlander.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Toyota Highlander | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Highlander | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2358 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1701 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
