1988 Pontiac Banshee vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Banshee. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Banshee would be higher. At 4,042 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Banshee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Pontiac Banshee (227 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (201 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Pontiac Banshee should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Pontiac Banshee weights approximately 274 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Pontiac Banshee. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Pontiac Banshee | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Banshee | Golf |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4042 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2470 mm |
