1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado (323 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Chevrolet Silverado. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 Chevrolet Silverado (516 Nm) has 281 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (235 Nm). This means 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Silverado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Chevrolet Silverado | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Golf | Silverado |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2801 cc | 5999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 323 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 516 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 5720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 3380 mm |
