1998 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (121 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 25 kg more than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2006 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cavalier | Golf |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
