2005 Toyota Matrix vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Toyota Matrix is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota Matrix (123 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 240 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Toyota Matrix is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Matrix 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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf (172 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Toyota Matrix. (161 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Toyota Matrix | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matrix | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2512 mm |
