2005 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 8 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 5,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Corvette (400 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (167 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 201 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 2005 Chevrolet Corvette 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 2005 Chevrolet Corvette. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 2005 Chevrolet Corvette (544 Nm) has 319 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Chevrolet Corvette 1997 Volkswagen Golf
Make Chevrolet Volkswagen
Model Corvette Golf
Year Released 2005 1997
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5965 cc 2323 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 400 HP 167 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 544 Nm 225 Nm
Engine Bore Size 102 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92 mm 90.2 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1440 kg 1239 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1260 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2810 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 68 L 55 L