1997 Chevrolet Express 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 Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 7,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (286 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (266 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 903 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 2012 Volkswagen Golf is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Express. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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 (555 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 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 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Express | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7439 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 555 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2424 kg | 1521 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2578 mm |
