2008 Pontiac Torrent vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Torrent is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,423 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Torrent (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Pontiac Torrent weights approximately 247 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Pontiac Torrent is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Torrent 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 Pontiac Torrent (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Torrent will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Pontiac Torrent has automatic transmission and 1998 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Pontiac Torrent will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Pontiac Torrent | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Torrent | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3423 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1352 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
