1996 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2009 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2009 Volvo XC90 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,192 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo XC90 (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (172 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2009 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 (236 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (235 Nm). This means 2009 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1996 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Volkswagen Golf | 2009 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2801 cc | 3192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2650 mm |
