2004 GMC Sonoma vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 GMC Sonoma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 GMC Sonoma would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 GMC Sonoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2004 GMC Sonoma. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 GMC Sonoma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 25 kg more than 2004 GMC Sonoma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 GMC Sonoma is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 GMC Sonoma 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 GMC Sonoma. (190 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 GMC Sonoma.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 GMC Sonoma | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sonoma | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 55 L |
