2001 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC70 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC70 (240 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 626 kg more than 2001 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, 2012 Volvo XC70 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Volvo XC70 has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volvo XC70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | XC70 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2324 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4838 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1604 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2815 mm |
