1997 Holden Statesman vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Holden Statesman (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Holden Statesman weights approximately 220 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Holden Statesman 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 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Holden Statesman (305 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (202 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1997 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Holden Statesman has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Holden Statesman | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Statesman | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2480 mm |
