1985 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2012 Volvo S60
To start off, 2012 Volvo S60 is newer by 27 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 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo S60 (200 HP) has 73 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (127 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S60 weights approximately 649 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, 2012 Volvo S60 (420 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Golf. 2012 Volvo S60 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. 2012 Volvo S60 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Golf | 2012 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | S60 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
