2009 GMC Yukon vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 GMC Yukon 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 5,327 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 GMC Yukon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 GMC Yukon (320 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 GMC Yukon should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 GMC Yukon weights approximately 1275 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 GMC Yukon 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 GMC Yukon 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 Yukon (461 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 GMC Yukon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 GMC Yukon 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 GMC Yukon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 GMC Yukon | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | GMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Yukon | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5327 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 73 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 9 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2435 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1960 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2520 mm |
