2008 Ford Galaxy vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Ford Galaxy is newer by 11 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 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Galaxy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Galaxy (143 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Galaxy should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Galaxy weights approximately 438 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, 2008 Ford Galaxy (203 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Galaxy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Galaxy | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Galaxy | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.6 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1728 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
