2006 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (401 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (172 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2006 Chevrolet SSR 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 2006 Chevrolet SSR. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (542 Nm) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (235 Nm). This means 2006 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet SSR | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | SSR | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5965 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2480 mm |
