2008 Mitsubishi Carisma vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma weights approximately 127 kg more than 1996 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 Mitsubishi Carisma (141 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mitsubishi Carisma | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Carisma | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1287 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2480 mm |
