2006 Pontiac Torrent vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Pontiac Torrent 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 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Pontiac Torrent (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Pontiac Torrent weights approximately 242 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Pontiac Torrent (286 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Pontiac Torrent will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 Pontiac Torrent has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Pontiac Torrent will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Pontiac Torrent | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Torrent | Golf |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3425 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1347 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
