2006 Chevrolet Spark vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Spark is newer by 9 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Spark. (65 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Spark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 187 kg more than 2006 Chevrolet Spark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Chevrolet Spark is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Chevrolet Spark. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Spark. (87 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Spark. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2006 Chevrolet Spark has manual transmission. 2006 Chevrolet Spark 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:
2006 Chevrolet Spark | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
Model | Spark | Golf |
Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 995 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 65 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 87 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 68.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 67.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1265 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |