2012 Hyundai Elantra vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Elantra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 227 kg more than 2001 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, 2012 Hyundai Elantra (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Hyundai Elantra | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Hyundai | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elantra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | 4-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4486 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1765 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1519 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2512 mm |
