2001 Pontiac Grand Am 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 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (140 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 72 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. (278 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Pontiac Grand Am | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Grand Am | Golf |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2578 mm |
