2012 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Jeep Wrangler is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Jeep Wrangler (285 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 743 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Jeep Wrangler 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, 2012 Jeep Wrangler (352 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Jeep Wrangler | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Jeep | Volkswagen |
| Model | Wrangler | Golf |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2002 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 352 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Flex Fuel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4404 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1877 mm | 1735 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2946 mm | 2512 mm |
