1978 GMC Jimmy vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1978 GMC Jimmy. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 GMC Jimmy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 GMC Jimmy weights approximately 553 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1978 GMC Jimmy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 GMC Jimmy 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 GMC Jimmy. (242 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 GMC Jimmy. 1978 GMC Jimmy has automatic transmission and 2009 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2009 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 GMC Jimmy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 GMC Jimmy | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jimmy | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4093 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 242 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2580 mm |
