1985 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2008 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2008 Volvo XC90 is newer by 23 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo XC90 (207 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (127 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1238 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.
Because 2008 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. 2008 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1985 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1985 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Golf | 2008 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 2198 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
