2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 2,393 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara (166 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 135 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara. 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, 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Suzuki | Volkswagen |
| Model | Grand Vitara | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2393 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
