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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 90 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.
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, 2007 Hyundai Elantra (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2007 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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 | 1975 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.5 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.6 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
