2009 Pontiac Solstice vs. 2008 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Volkswagen GTI. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Volkswagen GTI would be higher. At 2,383 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP) has 27 more horse power than 2009 Pontiac Solstice. (173 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 2009 Pontiac Solstice. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 7 kg more than 2009 Pontiac Solstice. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Pontiac Solstice is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Pontiac Solstice. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GTI, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Pontiac Solstice. (226 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Pontiac Solstice. 2008 Volkswagen GTI has automatic transmission and 2009 Pontiac Solstice has manual transmission. 2009 Pontiac Solstice will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Pontiac Solstice | 2008 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Solstice | GTI |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2383 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2580 mm |
