2008 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 140 kg more than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (205 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Chevrolet Optra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Optra | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Optra | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2520 mm |
