2009 Jeep Wrangler vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Jeep Wrangler is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,777 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Jeep Wrangler (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (201 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 14 kg more than 2009 Jeep Wrangler.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Jeep Wrangler. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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 Jeep Wrangler (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Jeep Wrangler has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Jeep Wrangler will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Jeep Wrangler | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
| Model | Wrangler | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3777 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 62 L |
