2001 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chevrolet Impala would be higher. At 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chevrolet Impala (180 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 210 kg more than 2012 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, 2001 Chevrolet Impala (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2001 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 2001 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chevrolet Impala | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Impala | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3350 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 55 L |
