2009 Honda S2000 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Honda S2000 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 2,157 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda S2000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda S2000 (237 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda S2000 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda S2000 weights approximately 219 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 2009 Honda S2000 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Honda S2000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2009 Honda S2000 has manual transmission. 2009 Honda S2000 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda S2000 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | S2000 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2157 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1484 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
