2002 Pontiac Solstice vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Pontiac Solstice. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Pontiac Solstice would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Pontiac Solstice. (240 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Pontiac Solstice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 276 kg more than 2002 Pontiac Solstice. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Pontiac Solstice. (305 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Pontiac Solstice. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2002 Pontiac Solstice has manual transmission. 2002 Pontiac Solstice will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Pontiac Solstice | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Solstice | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1318 kg | 1594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3910 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2580 mm |
