2009 Chevrolet Silverado vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado (332 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 101 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 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Silverado (498 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 372 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Chevrolet Silverado has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Silverado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Silverado | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Silverado | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5999 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 332 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 498 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5850 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3650 mm | 2520 mm |
