2006 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,801 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Golf (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe.
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, 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe (245 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (235 Nm). This means 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Hyundai Santa Fe | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Santa Fe | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2701 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2480 mm |
