2000 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2000 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 3 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 5,324 cc (8 cylinders), 2000 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Chevrolet SSR (300 HP) has 186 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 877 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.
Because 2000 Chevrolet SSR is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2000 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2000 Chevrolet SSR (481 Nm) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (310 Nm). This means 2000 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Chevrolet SSR | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | SSR | Golf |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5324 cc | 1894 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 481 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2150 kg | 1273 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2630 mm |
