2002 Pontiac Solstice vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 4 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 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (240 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 64 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Solstice.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Pontiac Solstice. 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, 2002 Pontiac Solstice (305 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm). This means 2002 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Pontiac Solstice | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Solstice | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1382 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3910 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2520 mm |
