2003 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet SSR 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 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 823 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.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Chevrolet SSR. 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, 2003 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet SSR | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | SSR | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5316 cc | 1982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 449 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2154 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
