1985 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (127 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1985 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Golf | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | S80 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
