1977 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 4,413 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S80 (311 HP @ 5950 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S80 weights approximately 793 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Volvo S80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S80 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, 2009 Volvo S80 (440 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Golf. 2009 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1977 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1977 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Volkswagen Golf | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | S80 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 4413 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5950 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
