2009 GMC Sierra vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 GMC Sierra is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 6,199 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 GMC Sierra (403 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 354 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1903 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 GMC Sierra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 GMC Sierra 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 GMC Sierra (565 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 488 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 GMC Sierra has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 GMC Sierra | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
Model | Sierra | Golf |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 6199 cc | 1093 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 403 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 565 Nm | 77 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2659 kg | 756 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5850 mm | 3830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3650 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 98 L | 45 L |