1998 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 282 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Chevrolet Impala. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Chevrolet Impala. (293 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Chevrolet Impala.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 Chevrolet Impala | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Chevrolet |
| Model | Golf | Impala |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 293 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1331 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2807 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 64 L |
