2006 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2013 Toyota Matrix is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2013 Toyota Matrix. (156 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2013 Toyota Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 144 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
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 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Toyota Matrix. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Toyota Matrix. 2013 Toyota Matrix has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Toyota |
| Model | Golf | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1336 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4365 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
