1998 Buick Signia vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Buick Signia is newer by 1 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Buick Signia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Buick Signia (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Buick Signia weights approximately 565 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, 1998 Buick Signia (387 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Buick Signia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Buick Signia | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Signia | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2470 mm |
