1998 Pontiac Sunfire vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Pontiac Sunfire 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 2,201 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Sunfire is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Pontiac Sunfire (115 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Sunfire should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Sunfire weights approximately 40 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 Pontiac Sunfire (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Pontiac Sunfire will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Pontiac Sunfire | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Sunfire | Golf |
Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2201 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |