2006 Chevrolet SSR vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 8 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 5,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (401 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (201 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 329 kg more than 2006 Chevrolet SSR.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 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, 2006 Chevrolet SSR (542 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (270 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet SSR | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | SSR | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5965 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1078 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 62 L |
