2007 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 10 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 112 kg more than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. 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 (285 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Hyundai Elantra. (235 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Hyundai Elantra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Hyundai Elantra | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elantra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
