1989 Buick Electra vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Electra (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick Electra weights approximately 261 kg more than 2011 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, 1989 Buick Electra (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1989 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. 1989 Buick Electra has automatic transmission and 2011 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2011 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Buick Electra 2011 Volkswagen Golf
Make Buick Volkswagen
Model Electra Golf
Year Released 1989 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3791 cc 1600 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 163 HP 104 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 250 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 1500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1575 kg 1314 kg
Vehicle Length 4990 mm 4199 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1786 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2820 mm 2578 mm