2009 Buick Enclave vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Buick Enclave is newer by 12 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Buick Enclave is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Buick Enclave (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Buick Enclave should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Buick Enclave weights approximately 771 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 2009 Buick Enclave 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, 2009 Buick Enclave 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, 2009 Buick Enclave (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Buick Enclave will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Buick Enclave | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | Enclave | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1946 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
