1978 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2006 Volvo S80
To start off, 2006 Volvo S80 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,920 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 1800 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 303 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. 2006 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Golf | 2006 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | S80 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1093 cc | 2920 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
