1975 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (208 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Volkswagen Golf. (119 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Volkswagen Golf | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | V50 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
