2008 Pontiac G5 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Pontiac G5 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 2,401 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac G5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac G5 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac G5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 2008 Pontiac G5 (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac G5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Pontiac G5 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | G5 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2401 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |
