2009 Pontiac Torrent vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Torrent 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 3,425 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2009 Pontiac Torrent. (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Pontiac Torrent. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac Torrent weights approximately 539 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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 Pontiac Torrent (285 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. (252 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Torrent will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Pontiac Torrent 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 Pontiac Torrent will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Pontiac Torrent | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Torrent | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3425 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2480 mm |
