1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2008 Volvo V70
To start off, 2008 Volvo V70 is newer by 11 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), 2008 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V70 (168 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V70 weights approximately 330 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, 2008 Volvo V70 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Volvo V70 has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo V70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2008 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | V70 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2323 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1239 kg | 1569 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
