2008 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1997 Volvo C70
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo C70 (190 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo C70 weights approximately 366 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Volvo C70. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1997 Volvo C70 (270 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Golf. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Golf | 1997 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | C70 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1204 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |
