1972 GMC Suburban vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 GMC Suburban. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 GMC Suburban would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 GMC Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1972 GMC Suburban. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1972 GMC Suburban. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 GMC Suburban weights approximately 886 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1972 GMC Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 GMC Suburban 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 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 GMC Suburban. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 GMC Suburban. 1972 GMC Suburban has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 GMC Suburban will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 GMC Suburban | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Suburban | Golf |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 242 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2200 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5480 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3300 mm | 2578 mm |
