1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2013 Volvo S60
To start off, 2013 Volvo S60 is newer by 16 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo S60 (321 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo S60 weights approximately 587 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.
Because 2013 Volvo S60 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Volvo S60 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2013 Volvo S60 (480 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2013 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | S60 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.9 seconds | 5.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1762 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2097 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1484 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2776 mm |
