1983 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 1989 Volvo 440 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 440 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 440 (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 440 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1983 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, 1989 Volvo 440 (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Golf. (133 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 440 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Volkswagen Golf | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 440 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
