2008 GMC Sierra vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2008 GMC Sierra 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 4,298 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 GMC Sierra (195 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1051 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 Sierra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 GMC Sierra will offer significantly more control. 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 Sierra (353 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (127 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 GMC Sierra 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 Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 GMC Sierra 1997 Volkswagen Golf
Make GMC Volkswagen
Model Sierra Golf
Year Released 2008 1997
Body Type Pickup Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4298 cc 1390 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 195 HP 73 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 353 Nm 127 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 3300 RPM
Drive Type 4WD Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 3 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 2141 kg 1090 kg
Vehicle Length 5710 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 2040 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1880 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 3030 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 13.1 L/100km 6.6 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 98 L 55 L