1997 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 1 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 5,666 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette (345 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (172 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1997 Chevrolet Corvette 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 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette (475 Nm) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (235 Nm). This means 1997 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Corvette | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corvette | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5666 cc | 2801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 99 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2480 mm |
