1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 263 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | V50 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
