1981 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2006 Volvo C70
To start off, 2006 Volvo C70 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo C70 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo C70 weights approximately 948 kg more than 1981 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, 2006 Volvo C70 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Golf. (79 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Golf | 2006 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | C70 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1093 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1698 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
