1997 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (240 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 404 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Pontiac Grand Prix (380 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Grand Prix | Golf |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3789 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 380 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 159 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1210 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |