2008 Suzuki Swift vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Suzuki Swift 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 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Suzuki Swift (91 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Suzuki Swift should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 25 kg more than 2008 Suzuki Swift.
Because 2008 Suzuki Swift is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Suzuki Swift will offer significantly more control. 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 (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Suzuki Swift. (116 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Suzuki Swift.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Suzuki Swift | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Swift | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1328 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.5 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2520 mm |
