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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 300 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 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 1093 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 (551 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (310 Nm @ 1900 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 | 5998 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 551 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2366 kg | 1273 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
