1985 Volkswagen Polo vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 2,783 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (268 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 989 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (380 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Polo. 1998 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1985 Volkswagen Polo has manual transmission. 1985 Volkswagen Polo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Volkswagen Polo | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Polo | S80 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1043 cc | 2783 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 59 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1689 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
