2008 GMC Yukon vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 GMC Yukon is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 GMC Yukon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 GMC Yukon (352 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 293 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Yukon should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Yukon weights approximately 1275 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 GMC Yukon is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 GMC Yukon 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 Yukon (519 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 403 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 GMC Yukon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 GMC Yukon has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 GMC Yukon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 GMC Yukon | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Yukon | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5966 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 352 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 519 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2435 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5660 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2480 mm |
