2006 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2011 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2011 GMC Sierra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 GMC Sierra (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 GMC Sierra weights approximately 975 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 GMC Sierra 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 2011 GMC Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2011 GMC Sierra (413 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2011 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. 2011 GMC Sierra has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Volkswagen Golf | 2011 GMC Sierra | |
| Make | Volkswagen | GMC |
| Model | Golf | Sierra |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 413 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1336 kg | 2311 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 5847 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 2032 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1875 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3645 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 98 L |
