2006 Hyundai Matrix vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Hyundai Matrix 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 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2006 Hyundai Matrix. (102 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 Hyundai Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 5 kg more than 2006 Hyundai Matrix. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (195 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Hyundai Matrix. (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Hyundai Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Matrix | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matrix | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
