2009 Chevrolet Spark vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Spark is newer by 12 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Spark. (65 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Spark. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 295 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Spark. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chevrolet Spark. (87 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chevrolet Spark.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Spark | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spark | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 995 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 65 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Top Speed | 149 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.4 seconds | 14 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 795 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 55 L |
