2006 Porsche Cayman vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Porsche Cayman 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 2,686 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Porsche Cayman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Porsche Cayman (242 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Porsche Cayman should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Porsche Cayman weights approximately 125 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Porsche Cayman 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 Porsche Cayman. 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, 2006 Porsche Cayman (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Porsche Cayman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2006 Porsche Cayman has manual transmission. 2006 Porsche Cayman 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 Porsche Cayman | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cayman | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2686 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
