2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 19 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2008 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Volkswagen Golf 1997 Volkswagen Golf
Make Volkswagen Volkswagen
Model Golf Golf
Year Released 2008 1997
Body Type Hatchback Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1968 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 5 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 320 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 95.5 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 18.0:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 203 km/hour 212 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 9.3 seconds 9.4 seconds
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1284 kg 1265 kg
Vehicle Length 4210 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2590 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 55 L


 

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