2008 Jeep Patriot vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Jeep Patriot 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Jeep Patriot is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Jeep Patriot (172 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Jeep Patriot should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Jeep Patriot weights approximately 560 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (285 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Jeep Patriot. (224 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Jeep Patriot.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Jeep Patriot | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
| Model | Patriot | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1860 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
