1997 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,737 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette (277 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (238 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 72 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 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 (437 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Corvette | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corvette | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5737 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 437 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 62 L |
