2003 Chevrolet Tracker vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Chevrolet Tracker. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Chevrolet Tracker would be higher. At 1,590 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Tracker is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Tracker (97 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Tracker should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2003 Chevrolet Tracker is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Chevrolet Tracker. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Tracker. (139 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Tracker.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Tracker | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tracker | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1590 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2578 mm |
