2009 Ford Flex vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Ford Flex 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 3,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Flex is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Flex (262 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (167 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Flex should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 273 kg more than 2009 Ford Flex.
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, 2009 Ford Flex (336 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Flex will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Ford Flex has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Flex will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Flex | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Flex | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3494 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 336 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
