1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 4,997 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (217 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1209 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Express 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 Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (379 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2003 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2003 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Express | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4997 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 379 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2364 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2710 mm |
