1997 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 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 151 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 300 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.
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 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Grand Prix | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1614 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
