1988 GMC Jimmy vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 4,299 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 GMC Jimmy (158 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 GMC Jimmy should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 GMC Jimmy weights approximately 275 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 GMC Jimmy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 1988 GMC Jimmy (313 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 GMC Jimmy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1988 GMC Jimmy has manual transmission. 1988 GMC Jimmy will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 GMC Jimmy | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jimmy | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4299 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 313 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2590 mm |
