1983 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2012 GMC Sierra is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Sierra (403 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 329 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1482 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 GMC Sierra is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 GMC Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 GMC Sierra (565 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 436 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (129 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 GMC Sierra has automatic transmission and 1983 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1983 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 GMC Sierra | |
| Make | Volkswagen | GMC |
| Model | Golf | Sierra |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 403 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 565 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 2352 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 5839 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 2032 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1875 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 3645 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 98 L |
