2008 Buick LaCrosse vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 10 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 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Buick LaCrosse (200 HP) has 127 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 786 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, 2008 Buick LaCrosse (312 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2008 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Buick LaCrosse | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | LaCrosse | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3801 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 73 HP |
Torque | 312 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1946 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |