2005 Pontiac Vibe vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Pontiac Vibe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Pontiac Vibe would be higher. At 1,803 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Pontiac Vibe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Pontiac Vibe (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Pontiac Vibe should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 111 kg more than 2005 Pontiac Vibe.
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, 2005 Pontiac Vibe (172 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm). This means 2005 Pontiac Vibe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Pontiac Vibe | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Vibe | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1803 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1257 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4534 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |
