2009 GMC Acadia vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 GMC Acadia is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,599 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 GMC Acadia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 GMC Acadia (288 HP) has 235 more horse power than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 GMC Acadia should accelerate faster than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 GMC Acadia weights approximately 1605 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 GMC Acadia (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (96 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 GMC Acadia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 GMC Acadia has automatic transmission and 1989 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1989 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 GMC Acadia will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 GMC Acadia | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Acadia | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3599 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2435 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
