1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTD
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTD 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 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Express (197 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen GTD. (168 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen GTD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 921 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen GTD. 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTD, 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 GTD (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (339 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTD will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Express. 1997 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen GTD has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen GTD 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 GTD | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Express | GTD |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2330 kg | 1409 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 |
