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 6,198 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette (430 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 357 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (73 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 101 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 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 (575 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 449 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
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 | 6198 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 430 HP | 73 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 575 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 103.3 mm | 76.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 75.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2520 mm |