1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Chevrolet Express
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Express is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Express (280 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1578 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2011 Chevrolet Express (400 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Chevrolet Express | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Golf | Express |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 2753 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5692 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2012 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 2070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 3429 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 117 L |
