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 2,401 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V70 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 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 436 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 (350 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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 | 1896 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 6.8 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 | 1611 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
