1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2010 Volvo C30
To start off, 2010 Volvo C30 is newer by 13 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2010 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volvo C30 weights approximately 293 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, 2010 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2010 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2010 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | C30 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1453 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4265 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2639 mm |
