2009 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 12 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 6,160 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette (424 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 309 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette (424 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Chevrolet Corvette has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Corvette will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Corvette | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Corvette | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6160 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 1 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 424 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 424 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 103.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
