2008 Saturn Sky vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Saturn Sky 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Saturn Sky is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Saturn Sky (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Saturn Sky should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Saturn Sky weights approximately 169 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 Saturn Sky 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 Saturn Sky. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Saturn Sky (353 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Saturn Sky will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Saturn Sky | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Saturn | Volkswagen |
Model | Sky | Golf |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 353 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2520 mm |