2008 GMC Savana vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 GMC Savana 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 4,802 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 GMC Savana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 GMC Savana (279 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Savana should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Savana weights approximately 981 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 GMC Savana 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 2008 GMC Savana. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2008 GMC Savana (399 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 GMC Savana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 GMC Savana has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 GMC Savana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 GMC Savana | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Savana | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4802 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 279 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2141 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5700 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2080 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2520 mm |
