2008 Toyota Matrix vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Toyota Matrix 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Toyota Matrix. (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Toyota Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 24 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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 (195 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Matrix. (165 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Matrix.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Toyota Matrix | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matrix | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
