1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 16 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 981 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.
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, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse (361 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2013 Chevrolet Traverse has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Golf | Traverse |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 2141 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5173 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1846 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 83 L |
