2003 Buick Regal vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2003 Buick Regal is newer by 5 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 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Buick Regal (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Buick Regal should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Buick Regal weights approximately 260 kg more than 1998 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, 2003 Buick Regal (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (202 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2003 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Buick Regal has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Buick Regal will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Buick Regal 1998 Volkswagen Golf
Make Buick Volkswagen
Model Regal Golf
Year Released 2003 1998
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3789 cc 1896 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 3750 RPM
Torque 312 Nm 202 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2250 RPM
Engine Bore Size 97 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 95.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1560 kg 1300 kg
Vehicle Length 4990 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2780 mm 2480 mm