2008 GMC Savana vs. 2013 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 GMC Savana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 GMC Savana 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 111 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Savana should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Savana weights approximately 765 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 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 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 GMC Savana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 GMC Savana has automatic transmission and 2013 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Savana | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4802 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 279 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 399 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2141 kg | 1376 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6210 mm | 4201 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2090 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3940 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 55 L |
