1997 GMC Safari 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 GMC Safari. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 GMC Safari would be higher. At 4,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1997 GMC Safari. (187 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 GMC Safari. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 GMC Safari weights approximately 407 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1997 GMC Safari 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 GMC Safari. 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 GMC Safari (338 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1997 GMC Safari | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
Model | Safari | Golf |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4293 cc | 3196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 338 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 102 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 96 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1955 kg | 1548 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4180 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 62 L |