1997 Chevrolet Camaro vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Camaro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Camaro would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Camaro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Camaro (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Camaro should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Camaro weights approximately 232 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Camaro 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 1997 Chevrolet Camaro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Camaro. (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Camaro. 2012 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1997 Chevrolet Camaro has manual transmission. 1997 Chevrolet Camaro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Camaro | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Camaro | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2578 mm |
