2009 Chevrolet Express vs. 1985 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Express is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 5,998 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Express (319 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (127 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 300 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Express 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 2009 Chevrolet Express. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2009 Chevrolet Express (498 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Chevrolet Express has automatic transmission and 1985 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1985 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Express | 1985 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Express | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 319 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 498 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 12 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5700 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2080 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 55 L |
