2008 Volkswagen Phaeton vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (222 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 901 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.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Phaeton | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2166 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
