1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2011 Opel Insignia 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Opel Insignia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Insignia (321 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Insignia should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2011 Opel Insignia is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Opel Insignia will offer significantly more control. 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 Opel Insignia (435 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Opel |
| Model | Golf | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 435 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2737 mm |
