1979 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1992 Volvo 480
To start off, 1992 Volvo 480 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Volvo 480 (109 HP) has 50 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Volvo 480 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1992 Volvo 480 (143 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Golf. (95 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1992 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Volkswagen Golf | 1992 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 480 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 109 HP |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 805 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
