1988 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 GMC Acadia
To start off, 2012 GMC Acadia is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 GMC Acadia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Acadia (288 HP) has 235 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Acadia should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Acadia weights approximately 1282 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Acadia (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Acadia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 GMC Acadia has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 GMC Acadia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 GMC Acadia | |
| Make | Volkswagen | GMC |
| Model | Golf | Acadia |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 288 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 2112 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1986 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1849 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 83 L |
