2009 Toyota Matrix vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Toyota Matrix is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Matrix (132 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 170 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Toyota Matrix (174 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota Matrix | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Toyota | Volkswagen |
| Model | Matrix | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2480 mm |
