2006 MG TF vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 MG TF is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 MG TF (135 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 MG TF should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 120 kg more than 2006 MG TF.
Because 2006 MG TF 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 MG TF. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (202 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 MG TF. (165 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 MG TF.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 MG TF | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | MG | Volkswagen |
| Model | TF | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 95.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2480 mm |
