1981 Volvo 240 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (111 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 248 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Volvo 240 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 1981 Volvo 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Volvo 240 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Volvo | Volkswagen |
Model | 240 | Golf |
Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2314 cc | 3196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 238 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 185 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1548 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4180 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2470 mm |