2009 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 11 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 3,900 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Impala (234 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Chevrolet Impala. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf 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 Chevrolet Impala (325 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2009 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Impala | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Impala | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3900 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 234 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 62 L |
