1997 Volvo S90 vs. 2011 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo S90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo S90 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S90. (177 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S90.
Because 1997 Volvo S90 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Volvo S90. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen GTI, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2011 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S90. (260 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S90.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volvo S90 | 2011 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | S90 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4211 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1468 mm |
