2009 Honda Element vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Honda Element is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Element (167 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Element weights approximately 990 kg more than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element 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, 2009 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (107 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 1991 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1991 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Element | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Element | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
