1978 Volvo 164 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 164 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Volvo 164 (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (84 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Volvo 164 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1978 Volvo 164 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 1978 Volvo 164. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1978 Volvo 164 (204 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1978 Volvo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volvo 164 | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 164 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5610 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3350 mm | 2578 mm |
